FRONTOSA BLACK WIDOW ( 1-1/2 inches )

Fontosa Black Widow (Boulengerochromis microlepis), also known as the Black Widow Cichlid, is a striking and relatively rare cichlid species known for its dramatic coloration and territorial nature. Proper care is essential to keep this unique fish healthy and thriving in an aquarium setting. Here’s a detailed care guide for Fontosa Black Widows:

Tank Size and Setup

• Tank Size: A minimum of 75 gallons is recommended for a single Fontosa Black Widow. Larger tanks are better, especially if housing more than one or if keeping other species.
• Aquascape: Provide a tank with ample hiding spots and territories. Use rocks, driftwood, and large caves to create natural hiding spots. Fontosa Black Widows are territorial and will appreciate a well-structured environment.
• Substrate: Use a substrate of sand or fine gravel. This allows for easy maintenance and minimizes stress on the fish.
• Lighting: Moderate lighting is sufficient. Avoid extremely bright lighting, as Fontosa Black Widows prefer subdued conditions.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: Fontosa Black Widows thrive in warmer water, with a temperature range of 76-82°F (24-28°C). Use a reliable heater to maintain a stable temperature.
• pH: They prefer slightly alkaline to neutral water, with a pH range of 7.0 to 8.0. Stability in pH is important for their health.
• Hardness: They can adapt to various water hardness levels but prefer moderate hardness, with a general hardness (GH) of 10-15 dGH.
• Water Quality: Maintain excellent water quality with regular water changes (20-30% weekly). Ensure ammonia and nitrite levels are at 0 ppm and keep nitrates below 20 ppm. Use a high-quality water conditioner to treat tap water before adding it to the tank.

Filtration and Water Flow

• Filtration: Use a filtration system that provides both mechanical and biological filtration. A canister filter or a high-capacity hang-on-back (HOB) filter is suitable for handling the bioload of these large fish.
• Water Flow: Moderate to strong water flow is ideal. Fontosa Black Widows appreciate a good flow for oxygenation and overall tank health.

Feeding

• Diet: Fontosa Black Widows are omnivorous and have a strong appetite. Offer a varied diet that includes high-quality pellets or flakes, live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and chopped fish or shrimp.
• Variety: Providing a diverse diet ensures they receive all the necessary nutrients and helps keep them healthy and active.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed them once or twice a day. Offer only as much food as they can consume in a few minutes to avoid overfeeding and maintain water quality.