Redhead Cichlid

Redhead Cichlid

Vieja melanurus

Also known as: Synspilum Cichlid, Quetzal Cichlid, Firehead Cichlid

💧 Freshwater 🔥 Aggressive 🟡 Moderate 🍽️ Omnivore

A large, impressive cichlid with a vivid red-orange head that intensifies with maturity. Body displays a mix of turquoise, red, and gold.

Tank Size

75 gal
minimum (125+ preferred)

Temperature

75–84°F
24–29°C

pH Range

7–8.5
water acidity

Max Size

14"
35.6 cm

Lifespan

10–15 years
typical in captivity

Swim Level

Middle
preferred zone

Care Notes

Needs a large tank with strong filtration. Can be aggressive, especially when breeding. Provide rock and driftwood territories.

Feeding

Pellets, frozen foods, earthworms, and significant vegetable matter like spirulina and blanched greens.

Compatible Tank Mates

None identified.

Use Caution With

Oscar 14" Jack Dempsey 10" Convict Cichlid 5" Green Terror 8" Texas Cichlid 12" Pike Cichlid 10" Salvini Cichlid 8" Red Devil 12" Jaguar Cichlid 16" Flowerhorn 12" Midas Cichlid 12" Peacock Bass 24"

Incompatible With

Neon Tetra 1.5" Cardinal Tetra 2" Rummy Nose Tetra 2" Ember Tetra 0.8" Black Skirt Tetra 2.5" Serpae Tetra 1.75" Congo Tetra 3.5" Glowlight Tetra 1.5" Harlequin Rasbora 2" Chili Rasbora 0.7" Celestial Pearl Danio 1" Zebra Danio 2"

Check Compatibility

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