Quetzal Cichlid

Vieja synspila inhabits large slow-moving rivers, lakes, and lagoons of the Usumacinta and Grijalva drainages in southern Mexico and Guatemala. Its common name 'Firehead Cichlid' is equally apt — the head and anterior body of dominant males flush a vivid orange-red, particularly intense during breeding. The remainder of the body displays blue-green iridescent scaling. This species can exceed 35 cm and needs very large aquariums to thrive.

Water: 24–30°C, pH 7.0–8.0, moderate to hard (GH 10–20). Tank: 500L+ for a breeding pair; open substrate with caves and wood at perimeter. Feeding: Omnivore; large pellets, frozen foods, and significant plant/vegetable content in diet. Behaviour: Semi-aggressive; dominant males are assertive; pairs defend large spawning territories. Compatibility: Best with other large robust cichlids — Vieja species, large Cichlasoma, similar genera.