Black Widow Brotula

(Stygnobrotula latebricola)

Brotula are commonly referred to as Cusk Eels having a similar body shape as Eels. Some species of Cusk Eel can grow quite large, research each species to ensure your aquarium is adequate. Cusk Eels should be added to large aquariums that are well established with plenty of room to swim. Juveniles inhabit shallow coral reefs while the adults are benthopelagic, mostly inhabiting the sandy, muddy ocean floor. Cusk Eels have also been found in freshwater and brackish waters. They are carnivorous primarily feeding on bony fish, crustaceans including crabs and shrimp. A diet of meaty based foods should be provided.

Black Widow Brotula are also known as the Black Brotula. Their dorsal, caudal and anal fins are joined together much like eels. The Black Widow Brotula has an overall brown to black body color with black fins. Rarely seen in the aquarium trade. They can grow to almost 9".

We recommend a minimum aquarium size of 100 gallons or larger for this species.

Water conditions: Salinity 1.020 - 1.025, Temp (F) 72 - 78, pH 8.1 - 8.4, Alkalinity 8 - 12 dKH

  • Care: CareDifficultDifficult CareModerateModerate
  • Behavior: BehaviorSocialSocial
  • Diet: DietFrozen FoodFrozen Food DietLive FoodLive Food
  • Habitat: HabitatReefReef
  • Light: LightMediumMedium