
Frontosa Cichlid (Cyphotilapia frontosa)
24–26°C · pH 7.8–9 · 450L

Black Widow Frontosa is a large, long-lived Lake Tanganyika cichlid for mature aquariums with hard alkaline water.
Adult size is the maximum length this species reaches at full maturity (scientific sources). The livestock you receive will be younger and smaller — pick a size variant above for the actual shipping size. Photos are AI-enhanced, so the animal may show subtle colour or marking differences.
Cyphotilapia frontosa Black Widow
Black Widow Frontosa Cichlid bond and breed in male/female pairs — buying a pair gives them the social structure they need.
Black Widow Frontosa is a large, long-lived Lake Tanganyika cichlid for mature aquariums with hard alkaline water.
Adult size is the maximum length this species reaches at full maturity (scientific sources). The livestock you receive will be younger and smaller — pick a size variant above for the actual shipping size. Photos are AI-enhanced, so the animal may show subtle colour or marking differences.

Cichlids are one of the most diverse fish families in the hobby. From tiny apistogrammas to massive oscars, this guide covers the basics of keeping them well.
Maintain these water conditions for optimal health and vibrant colors
Black Widow Frontosa Cichlid (Cyphotilapia frontosa) is a large, slow-growing Lake Tanganyika cichlid for serious long-term planning. It is calmer than many mbuna, but it is still a predatory cichlid with adult size, space and water-quality needs that must be respected.
| Listed identity | Cyphotilapia frontosa Black Widow |
|---|---|
| Adult size | Up to about 35cm |
| Minimum aquarium | 500 litres or larger for adults; long footprint preferred |
| Water | 23-27°C, pH 8.0-9.0, hard alkaline water |
| Diet | Quality pellets plus krill, prawns, mussel and shellfish foods |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive predator |
Use a mature aquarium with subdued lighting, secure rockwork, open swimming room and excellent filtration. Choose similarly sized Tanganyika tank mates and avoid small fish, shrimp or delicate species. This is a long-lived statement fish, not a quick beginner choice.
Use as a first-time buyer. This live fish is packed for a licensed live-animal courier service and covered by the Tropical Fish Co Live Arrival Guarantee.

24–26°C · pH 7.8–9 · 450L

24–27°C · pH 7.5–8.5 · 450L

24–27°C · pH 7.8–9 · 200L

24–27°C · pH 7.8–9 · 80L

18–26°C · pH 6.5–8 · 30L

23–27°C · pH 7.4–8.4 · 500L

20–27°C · pH 6–7 · 54L

23–27°C · pH 7.4–8.4 · 150L

24–28°C · pH 6.5–7.8 · 300L

20–24°C · pH 7–8 · 45L

24–28°C · pH 6.5–7.5 · 2000L

24–28°C · pH 7.5–8.5 · 200L

24–28°C · pH 5.5–7 · 60L

18–25°C · pH 6–8 · 100L

24–28°C · pH 7–8 · 120L

18–28°C · pH 6.5–8 · 20L

24–27°C · pH 7.5–8.8 · 150L

22–26°C · pH 6–7.5 · 60L

24–28°C · pH 7.5–8.5 · 40L

24–28°C · pH 7.5–8.5 · 500L