Description
Native to the rivers and floodplain lakes of Central America, Vieja synspilum—often known as the Redhead Cichlid—is a bold and impressive species admired for its powerful presence, vivid colouration, and intelligent behaviour. With its pronounced forehead, deep body, and striking red to orange facial markings in mature specimens, this large cichlid is a centrepiece fish best suited to experienced aquarists with ample space. Its strong personality and territorial nature make it a fascinating but demanding addition to large cichlid aquariums.
Features of Vieja Synspilum Cichlid:
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• Native habitat: slow-moving rivers, lagoons, and floodplains of Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras
• Maximum size: up to 30–35 cm in length
• Lifespan: 10–15 years with proper care
• Temperament: aggressive and highly territorial, especially when breeding
• Colouration: olive to bronze body with red, orange, or pink head and facial markings; colours intensify with age and dominance
• Behaviour: mid to bottom-level dweller; forms strong territories and may pair bond
Vieja Synspilum Cichlid: Care, Diet and Tank Mates
The Best Aquarium Size for Vieja Synspilum Cichlid:
Vieja Synspilum cichlids can become quite large. Plan for a tank of at least 200L or larger. Tank space is important for Redheads as they can be territorial. If you decide to include tank mates it is important to plan for enough space.
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Vieja Synspilum Cichlid Tank Mate Compatibility:
Redheads can be territorial even among their own species. Some compatible tank mates that you can add along:
Coburg Aquarium, specialised in different species of live fish.
Vieja Synspilum Cichlid Food :
The Vieja SynspilumCichlid is an omnivore and needs to be kept on a diet of both meaty and green foods, Cichlid Fish Food can be ：
Vieja SynspilumCichlid Tank Setup:
Aquarium Filtration
Successful keeping normally includes mechanical and biological filtration as well as regular water changes. Mild water movement will be appreciated. Here are some great ones to consider:
Plants in Cichild Fish Tank
Make sure they have plenty of live plants to hide. You can also add driftwood and Indian almond leaves to add tannins to your water. Interested in Live Plants for your aquariums? Click here to see more Fish Live Plant
Aquarium Decorations
Rocks, driftwoods, coves, pipes, and pots are all good for them to shelter in. Other Ideal Ornaments for your tank could be:
After more nice quality decorations? Check our Aquarium Ornaments.
Heater
As the species originates from a warm climate, you should make sure your tank is equipped with an aquarium heater if necessary.
Aquarium Substrate
Sandy or fine gravel bottom are very ideal for Vieja Synspilum Cichlid. A variety of Substrates are available at Coburg Aquarium.
