Black Widow Frontosa (Cyphotilapia frontosa “Black Widow”)
 
The Black Widow Frontosa is a striking and rare color morph of the well-known Cyphotilapia frontosa from Lake Tanganyika. Known for its deep black coloration and graceful swimming, this variety offers a unique twist on the traditional blue-and-white Frontosa. It’s a large, slow-moving cichlid with a regal presence, often becoming the centerpiece of any African cichlid aquarium.
 
Scientific Classification
Scientific Name: Cyphotilapia frontosa “Black Widow”
Common Name: Black Widow Frontosa
Family: Cichlidae
Origin: Lake Tanganyika, Africa
Adult Size: Up to 30 cm (12 inches)
Lifespan: 15+ years
 
Appearance
The Black Widow Frontosa stands out with its dramatic jet-black body and contrasting dark grey or silvery highlights. Unlike the standard blue Frontosa, this morph lacks the bright blue bands and instead has a velvety, monochromatic sheen that gives it a mysterious and elegant look. Males develop a pronounced nuchal hump on the forehead, particularly as they mature, and both sexes display long flowing fins.
 
Behavior & Temperament
Frontosas are known for their calm and deliberate movements. While generally peaceful for their size, they can be territorial—especially males during breeding. They do best in groups of 6 or more, forming a natural hierarchy. Despite their intimidating appearance, they are shy compared to other African cichlids and should be kept with similarly tempered species.
 
Tank Requirements
Minimum Tank Size: 400 liters (100 gallons) for a small group
Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
pH Range: 7.8–9.0
Water Hardness: 10–20 dGH
Substrate: Fine sand or crushed coral
Lighting: Dim to moderate, as Frontosas prefer subdued environments
Décor: Rock caves and ledges to mimic their natural rocky habitats; provide hiding spots and open swimming space
 
Diet
The Black Widow Frontosa is a carnivore with a preference for meaty foods.
Feed a balanced diet of:
High-quality cichlid pellets or sticks (formulated for large carnivores)
Frozen or live foods such as krill, shrimp, and silversides
Occasional treats of earthworms or mysis shrimp
Avoid feeding mammalian meats (e.g., beef heart), which can cause digestive problems.
 
Breeding
Frontosas are maternal mouthbrooders, with the female carrying fertilized eggs and fry in her mouth.
 
Spawning Setup: Provide large caves or flat stones for spawning.
Courtship: Males will court females by displaying and circling.
Brooding Period: 3–4 weeks, during which the female does not eat.
Fry Care: Once released, feed baby brine shrimp or crushed flake food.
Care Sheet
Tank Size: 400L+
Temperature: 24–28°C
pH: 7.8–9.0
Hardness: 10–20 dGH
Diet: Carnivore
Temperament: Peaceful to mildly territorial
Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder
Lifespan: 15+ years