Red-top Cichlid

Vieja melanura inhabits rivers and lakes of the Usumacinta and Grijalva drainages in Mexico and Guatemala. It is a large, deep-bodied cichlid with impressive colouration — the upper body and dorsal area are suffused with red-orange hues while the lower flanks display blue-green iridescence. Mature males develop a prominent nuchal hump. This species is a substrate-spawner that pairs for life and provides extended biparental care.

Water: 24–30°C, pH 7.0–8.0, moderate to hard (GH 10–20). Tank: 500L+ for a pair; provide open areas for swimming and flat substrate for spawning. Feeding: Omnivore; substantial plant component — spirulina pellets, blanched greens, large frozen foods. Behaviour: Semi-aggressive; males assert dominance; pair spawning on open substrate with strong fry defence. Compatibility: Best with large robust cichlids of similar temperament; single-species display also works well.