Redhead Cichlid

The 'Redhead Cichlid' is a trade name applied to certain Vieja melanura colour forms — specifically those individuals and breeding lines expressing extremely vivid red-orange head and neck colouration contrasting with a blue-silver body and red finnage. It is a large, impressive cichlid requiring substantial space and herbivore-biased feeding. Its stunning appearance makes it one of the most desirable large cichlids for showpiece aquariums.

Water: 24–30°C, pH 7.0–8.0, moderate to hard (GH 10–20). Tank: 500L+ for adults; open swimming area with caves and stones along perimeter. Feeding: Omnivore, herbivore-biased; spirulina, vegetables, quality pellets, and frozen foods. Behaviour: Semi-aggressive; males may be dominant; highly colourful when settled and well-fed. Compatibility: Best with other large robust cichlids — Vieja, large Herichthys, and similarly sized species.