Tolteca Cichlid

Vieja zonata is restricted to river drainages in Oaxaca on the Pacific slope of Mexico, making it one of the more geographically isolated of the Vieja species. Adults display bold vertical dark bands against a silvery to olive body, with subtle blue-green scale iridescence. Like other Vieja, it is a large-growing herbivore-biased omnivore that requires plant-rich feeding. Its limited distribution and scarcity in the hobby make it a genuine find for collectors.

Water: 22–28°C, pH 7.0–8.0, moderate hardness (GH 8–20). Tank: 450L+ for adults; open substrate with sturdy rock caves; include algae-growing surfaces. Feeding: Omnivore, herbivore-biased; spirulina, algae wafers, vegetables, and quality cichlid pellets. Behaviour: Semi-aggressive; typical Vieja substrate-spawning pair behaviour; fry are well guarded. Compatibility: Best with other large robust Central American cichlids in appropriately spacious tanks.