Vieja fenestrata Care Guide
Vieja fenestrata is a large Mexican cichlid of Atlantic-slope rivers, feeding mainly on plant matter and reaching about 25 cm.
Overview
Vieja fenestrata is a large Central American cichlid native to Mexico, recognised by its iridescent scales and mid-flank markings. FishBase records a maximum standard length of about 25 cm.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Vieja
- Scientific name: Vieja fenestrata
Habitat
The species occurs on the Atlantic slope of Mexico, in rivers from the Papaloapán basin to the Chachalacas basin. FishBase describes it as a benthopelagic freshwater fish of lakes with muddy or sandy bottoms, at temperatures of 23-30 °C.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 500 L
- Temperature: 24-28 °C (75-82 °F)
- pH: 7.0-8.0
- GH: 8-18 °dGH
- Lifespan: 10-15 years
Diet
It feeds primarily on plant and vegetable matter, supplemented by invertebrates and aquatic insects (FishBase trophic level about 2.7). A vegetable-based diet is appropriate in the aquarium.
Compatibility
It is a large, territorial cichlid suited to a spacious tank with similarly sized Central American species. Small fish and live plants are generally unsuitable.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2018).