Vieja hartwegi

Vieja hartwegi is found in the Grijalva river system of Chiapas, Mexico, sharing its habitat with several other endemic cichlid species. It is a moderately sized Vieja with a silver-green body adorned with scattered dark spots and a bold lateral blotch. During spawning, males and females develop vivid orange-red accents in the pelvic and anal fins that make them particularly striking. It is one of the more commonly available Vieja species and serves as an entry point into this fascinating group of Mexican cichlids for intermediate hobbyists.

Water: 22–28°C, pH 7.0–8.0, moderately hard (GH 8–18). Tank: Minimum 400L; rocks, caves, and driftwood; avoid delicate plants as the species is herbivorous. Feeding: Herbivore; spirulina pellets, algae wafers, blanched vegetables, and quality cichlid flake. Breeding: Open substrate spawner; moderately aggressive during brood care; suitable for a dedicated pair tank. Compatibility: With other Vieja or similar-sized Central American cichlids.