Scientific name: Vieja fenestrata Common name: N/A Family: Cichlidae Usual size in fish tanks: 25 - 30 cm (9.84 - 11.81 inch) 0 14 Recommended pH range for the species: 7.2 - 8.4 Recommended water hardness (dGH): 11 - 23°N (196.43 - 410.71ppm) 0°C 32°F 30°C 86°F Recommended temperature: 23 - 27 °C (73.4 - 80.6°F) The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning Where the species comes from: North America Temperament to its own species: peaceful Temperament toward other fish species: aggressive to smaller Usual place in the tank: Bottom levels Food and feeding Vieja fenestrata are herbivorous in the wild but they also eat insects and invertebrates as well. In the aquarium this diet can be replicated by using cichlid pellets or a quality flake and supplement these with spirulina flake and algae wafers. For meaty foods supply the fish with prawns cockles and mussels. Origin Central America and North America; Vieja fenestrata are endemic to the waterways of Mexico. Sexing Males are larger than the females with extended dorsal and anal fins. They will also develop a nuchal hump as they mature. Breeding Vieja fenestrata are egg depositors so they will clean a site, normally a flat rock but sometimes they will spawn in a cave, and the eggs will be laid. After 2-3 days the fry should hatch and 4-5 days after that they will be free swimming. Offer the fry newly hatched brine shrimp until they are large enough to accept micro worms and crushed flake. Lifespan The expected life span for Vieja fenestrata is 8 years. Short description Vieja fenestrata is very unpredictable and can turn on its tank mates or partner without any warning. If the female looks like she is getting bullied, remover her from the tank or add a divider and only return her after a few days. Pictures Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.
