Scientific Name: Vieja synspilum
Common Name(s): Fire Head, Quetzal Cichlid
Geo. Origin: South Mexico, Guatemala, Belize
Habitat: Still or Slow-Moving Water with Root Tangles
Diet: Omnivore
Gender Differences: Dimorphic
Breeding: Substrate Spawner
Temperament: Peaceful
Conspecific Temperament: Aggressive
Maximum Size: 17"
Temperature: 76 - 82°F
pH: 6.8 - 7.8
Water Hardness: Neutral
A popular species, the outrageous coloration of this large growing cichlid make it easy to see why this one will remain a favorite amongst fish keepers! Adult females will max out at around a foot in length, while the much heavier, longer males will develop a pronounced so-called, 'nuchal hump' with size and dominance. This omnivorous species will show it's best coloration and appreciate a large variety of high quality, veggie based foods as the foundation of it's diet. Stock as an established, compatible pair, if more than one is to be kept in the aquarium to avoid aggression problems.