Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackbelt cichlid (Vieja maculicauda) is a brackish-water fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
The blackbelt cichlid is a robust cichlid from Central America, on the Atlantic slope from Mexico to Panama. The species has a deep, grey-green body with a conspicuous broad black cross-band and often reddish tints near the tail, and reaches about 25 cm. It inhabits lakes and rivers and moves into the slow-flowing lower reaches, sheltering among submerged trees and branches; it also tolerates brackish water. The diet consists mainly of detritus, plant matter, seeds and fruits. As a substrate brooder both parents guard the clutch and the young.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackbelt cichlid?
The Blackbelt cichlid has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Broad black vertical bar across the body; tolerates brackish water; substrate brooder that guards the young.
Where does the Blackbelt cichlid live?
The Blackbelt cichlid lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Atlantic slope of Central America, from Mexico to Panama.
How big does the Blackbelt cichlid get?
The Blackbelt cichlid grows to a maximum of about 25 cm.
Is the Blackbelt cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Blackbelt cichlid is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Blackbelt cichlid edible?
Yes, the Blackbelt cichlid is commonly eaten.
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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
Want the complete picture on the Blackbelt cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackbelt cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.