Vieja maculicauda
 

81°F
Explanation of the symbols

72°F

Family : Cichlidae
Origin : Central America
Length : 30 cm - 12"
Min. length aquarium : 250 cm - 100"
English name : Blackbelt Cichlid
Very aggressive fish to species of their own kind and all other species as well, especially during breeding time.  The aquarium should be set up with driftwood, roots and stones that form a lot of hiding places.  Because they are real plants eaters it is impossible to use plants for decoration.  A territory is made and defended fanatic.  You can keep them together with other large cichlids and catfish. 

You should give them mainly vegetable food such as spinach and lettuce.  Live, frozen and dry food are accepted as well.

Breeding is fairly easy.  Up to 600 eggs are laid and fertilized on a flat stone.  After hatching the fry is brought to breeding pits.  Both parents care for the fry very intensive.  When the young fishes are swimming free you can raise them with baby brine shrimp and fine crushed dry food.

Photo Credit

Jan Bukkems

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