The Black Widow Frontosa (Cyphotilapia frontosa), also known as the Panda Frontosa, is a distinctive variant of the traditional Frontosa cichlid, renowned for its unique marbled black and white coloration. Unlike the typical vertical striping seen in standard Frontosas, the Black Widow exhibits irregular patterns, resulting from selective line breeding rather than hybridization.

Origin and Habitat:

Native to the deep, rocky waters of Lake Tanganyika in East Africa, Frontosas inhabit depths ranging from 50 to 170 feet (15 to 52 meters). They prefer dimly lit environments with stable conditions, often forming colonies along rocky substrates.

Physical Characteristics:

• Size: Males can grow up to 14 inches (35 cm), while females are slightly smaller, reaching up to 12 inches (30 cm).

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• Coloration: The Black Widow variant displays a marbled pattern of black and white, with blue-tinged fins. This irregular patterning distinguishes it from the traditional vertically striped Frontosa.

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Behavior and Temperament:

• Temperament: Generally peaceful, but can exhibit territorial behavior, especially during breeding. They are best kept in groups, as they are social fish that establish a clear hierarchy within the group.

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• Activity: Frontosas are relatively sedentary and prefer dim lighting, reflecting their natural deep-water habitat. They are known to be crepuscular, being most active during dawn and dusk.

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Aquarium Care:

• Tank Size: A minimum of 90 gallons is recommended for a small group, with larger tanks preferred to accommodate their size and social structure.

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• Water Parameters: Maintain a pH between 8.0 and 9.0, with temperatures ranging from 73.5°F to 81°F (23°C to 27°C). Water hardness should be between 9 to 25 dKH.

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• Aquascaping: Provide a rocky environment with caves and crevices to mimic their natural habitat. A sandy substrate is ideal, and ensure open swimming areas are available.

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Diet:

In the wild, Frontosas are carnivorous, feeding primarily on smaller fish and invertebrates. In captivity, they should be offered a varied diet consisting of high-quality cichlid pellets, supplemented with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, krill, and earthworms. Avoid feeding them mammalian meats or high-fat foods, as these can cause health issues.

Breeding:

Black Widow Frontosas are maternal mouthbrooders. After spawning, the female carries the fertilized eggs in her mouth for about 3 to 4 weeks until the fry are ready to be released. Providing a separate breeding tank with optimal water conditions and ample hiding spots can encourage successful breeding.

Compatibility:

Suitable tank mates include other large, peaceful cichlids from Lake Tanganyika. Avoid housing them with overly aggressive species or fish small enough to be considered prey. Maintaining a species-specific tank is often recommended to reduce stress and aggression.

The Black Widow Frontosa's unique appearance and relatively peaceful demeanor make it a captivating addition to large, well-maintained aquariums. Proper care, including appropriate tank conditions and diet, is essential to ensure their health and longevity.

The Black Widow Frontosa (Cyphotilapia frontosa), also known as the Panda Frontosa, is a distinctive variant of the traditional Frontosa cichlid, renowned for its unique marbled black and white coloration. Unlike the typical vertical striping seen in standard Frontosas, the Black Widow exhibits irregular patterns, resulting from selective line breeding rather than hybridization.

Origin and Habitat:

Native to the deep, rocky waters of Lake Tanganyika in East Africa, Frontosas inhabit depths ranging from 50 to 170 feet (15 to 52 meters). They prefer dimly lit environments with stable conditions, often forming colonies along rocky substrates.

Physical Characteristics:

• Size: Males can grow up to 14 inches (35 cm), while females are slightly smaller, reaching up to 12 inches (30 cm).

  Fishkeeping World

   

• Coloration: The Black Widow variant displays a marbled pattern of black and white, with blue-tinged fins. This irregular patterning distinguishes it from the traditional vertically striped Frontosa.

  Live Fish Direct

   

Behavior and Temperament:

• Temperament: Generally peaceful, but can exhibit territorial behavior, especially during breeding. They are best kept in groups, as they are social fish that establish a clear hierarchy within the group.

  Midas Cichlid

   

• Activity: Frontosas are relatively sedentary and prefer dim lighting, reflecting their natural deep-water habitat. They are known to be crepuscular, being most active during dawn and dusk.

  Fishkeeping World

   

Aquarium Care:

• Tank Size: A minimum of 90 gallons is recommended for a small group, with larger tanks preferred to accommodate their size and social structure.

  Absolutely Fish Naturals

   

• Water Parameters: Maintain a pH between 8.0 and 9.0, with temperatures ranging from 73.5°F to 81°F (23°C to 27°C). Water hardness should be between 9 to 25 dKH.

  Midas Cichlid

   

• Aquascaping: Provide a rocky environment with caves and crevices to mimic their natural habitat. A sandy substrate is ideal, and ensure open swimming areas are available.

  Fishkeeping World

   

Diet:

In the wild, Frontosas are carnivorous, feeding primarily on smaller fish and invertebrates. In captivity, they should be offered a varied diet consisting of high-quality cichlid pellets, supplemented with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, krill, and earthworms. Avoid feeding them mammalian meats or high-fat foods, as these can cause health issues.

Breeding:

Black Widow Frontosas are maternal mouthbrooders. After spawning, the female carries the fertilized eggs in her mouth for about 3 to 4 weeks until the fry are ready to be released. Providing a separate breeding tank with optimal water conditions and ample hiding spots can encourage successful breeding.

Compatibility:

Suitable tank mates include other large, peaceful cichlids from Lake Tanganyika. Avoid housing them with overly aggressive species or fish small enough to be considered prey. Maintaining a species-specific tank is often recommended to reduce stress and aggression.

The Black Widow Frontosa's unique appearance and relatively peaceful demeanor make it a captivating addition to large, well-maintained aquariums. Proper care, including appropriate tank conditions and diet, is essential to ensure their health and longevity.