Red Widow Frontosa (Cyphotilapia frontosa 'Red Widow') – Tank Bred

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The Red Widow Frontosa is an exceptionally rare and selectively bred color morph of Cyphotilapia frontosa, showcasing a bold red variation of the Black Widow Frontosa’s pattern. Instead of traditional black and white banding, this stunning variant displays deep red-orange hues with dark widow-like markings, making it a truly unique addition to any large cichlid aquarium.

Frontosas are known for their slow growth rate, social nature, and long lifespan, often living for 15 years or more in well-maintained aquariums. They thrive in spacious tanks with ample rockwork, mimicking their deep-water habitat from Lake Tanganyika. As a colony-forming species, they do best when kept in groups with a structured hierarchy.

What We Love About This Fish:

✔ Rare Red Widow Morph: Features the striking widow-like pattern of the Black Widow Frontosa but in a rich red-orange hue.
✔ Regal Appearance: Long, flowing fins and a pronounced forehead hump (nuchal hump).
✔ Social & Colony-Oriented: Thrives in groups with an established hierarchy.
✔ Hardy & Long-Lived: Can live 15+ years with proper care.

Natural Habitat:

Cyphotilapia frontosa is native to Lake Tanganyika, where they inhabit deep rocky waters ranging from 35 to 165 feet (10 to 50 meters). In the wild, they form colonies in caves and crevices, which provide security and natural breeding areas.

Aquascaping:

• Plants: Not recommended—Frontosas may uproot them.
• Hardscape: Large rock structures and caves for shelter and hierarchy formation.
• Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel to mimic their natural environment.
• Water Flow: Low to moderate, as they prefer calmer deep-water conditions.

Diet and Feeding:

Frontosas are carnivorous predators, feeding on small fish and invertebrates in the wild. In captivity, they thrive on:

• High-quality sinking cichlid pellets & sticks.
• Frozen or live foods such as krill, shrimp, and earthworms.
• Occasional small feeder fish or shellfish (avoid fatty foods like goldfish).
• Varied diet to maintain optimal health and coloration.

Tank Mates and Compatibility:

Frontosas are relatively peaceful for large cichlids, but they can be territorial. Best suited with:
✔ Other Tanganyikan cichlids (Altolamprologus, Synodontis catfish, etc.).
✔ Large, slow-moving African cichlids.
✔ Avoid aggressive Mbuna cichlids and small, fast-moving species.

Shrimp Safe?

❌ No. Frontosas are predators and will eat shrimp and small invertebrates.

Breeding:

Frontosas are maternal mouthbrooders, meaning the female incubates eggs in her mouth for approximately 4-6 weeks. Successful breeding requires:

• A harem setup (1 male with multiple females).
• Cave-like structures for spawning.
• Stable, warm water conditions (78-80°F).

Recommended Tank Parameters:

• Temperature: 74° - 80° F (23° - 27° C)
• pH: 7.8 - 8.3
• KH: 10 - 20 dKH
• Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons (for a group)

Care Guidelines:

• Diet: Carnivorous; requires high-protein foods.
• Social Behavior: Best kept in groups with a dominant male.
• Origin: Tank bred.
• Average Adult Size: 12 - 14 inches (30 - 35 cm).
• Average Purchase Size: 1.5 - 2 inches.

Live Arrival Guarantee:

All Aquatic Arts brand fish come with a 100% live arrival guarantee, plus free email support to ensure your success in keeping this incredible species!

Bring home the rare and stunning Red Widow Frontosa and add a majestic, one-of-a-kind presence to your aquarium!