Fin's Fish Guide
The Amatitlan cichlid (Vieja guttulata) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The cichlid is a Central American cichlid (Cichlidae) from the fresh waters of Central America. The species has a robust, deep body with a fine, droplet-shaped speckling, to which the name refers. It inhabits various bottoms, from mud and sand to rock, in the upper, middle and lower reaches of river valleys. As an omnivore it grazes algae and plant matter and snaps up small invertebrates. As a cichlid it is a caring substrate brooder. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Amatitlan cichlid?
The Amatitlan cichlid has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Fine drop-shaped speckling on a deep body; substrate-brooding river cichlid.
Where does the Amatitlan cichlid live?
The Amatitlan cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Central America; varied bottoms in river valleys.
How big does the Amatitlan cichlid get?
The Amatitlan cichlid grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Amatitlan cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Amatitlan cichlid is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Amatitlan cichlid edible?
The Amatitlan cichlid is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Vieja
More from the family Cichlidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Amatitlan cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.