Redhead Cichlid (melanura) (Vieja melanura)

Fish in the family Cichlidae. Moderate care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameVieja melanura

FamilyCichlidae

Also known asVieja synspila melanura, Firehead Cichlid

Care levelModerate

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentAggressive

DietOmnivore

Adult size13 in

Minimum tank size125 gallons

Water parametersTemp 75-82°F, pH 7.0-8.0, GH 8-25 dGH

Appearance

Deep-bodied cichlid with a distinctive black tail blotch (the 'melanura' spot) and red/orange head coloration in mature fish.

Difficulty and care for the Redhead Cichlid (melanura)

Moderate

Origin and habitat

Central America (Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico/Guatemala/Belize)

Keeper notes

Territorial Vieja; spawning pairs become very defensive. Often confused with V. synspila in the trade.

Log Redhead Cichlid (melanura) in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Redhead Cichlid (melanura) alongside everything else in your reef.

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