Fin's Fish Guide
The Redhead cichlid (Vieja melanura) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 35 cm.
Atlantic slope of Central America; Usumacinta river basin in Mexico, Guatemala and Belize.
Description
The redhead cichlid is a robust cichlid from Central America, especially the Usumacinta basin in Mexico, Guatemala and Belize. Adults develop a striking red head and nape and can reach about 35 cm; younger fish are greyish with dark cross-bars. The species inhabits rivers and lakes with a rocky or mixed bottom. It is an omnivore feeding on plant matter, detritus and small invertebrates. As a substrate brooder a pair deposits the eggs on a cleaned surface and both parents guard the young. The fish is popular in the aquarium hobby.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Redhead cichlid?
The Redhead cichlid is mainly multicoloured and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Adults with a strikingly red head and nape; substrate brooder; popular aquarium fish.
Where does the Redhead cichlid live?
The Redhead cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Atlantic slope of Central America; Usumacinta river basin in Mexico, Guatemala and Belize.
How big does the Redhead cichlid get?
The Redhead cichlid grows to a maximum of about 35 cm.
Is the Redhead cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Redhead cichlid is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Redhead cichlid edible?
The Redhead cichlid is rarely 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 Redhead cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Redhead cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.