Red Guttulatus Cichlid

🐟 Red Guttulatus Cichlid

The Red Guttulatus Cichlid is a large, powerful Central American cichlid admired for its deep red coloration, pearly spotting, and dominant presence. Often displaying a red to brick-colored body with iridescent blue or white speckling, this species develops intense coloration as it matures, especially in dominant males. Known for its strength, aggression, and bold personality, the Red Guttulatus Cichlid is best suited for experienced aquarists who can provide proper space and management.

Native to Central America, the Red Guttulatus Cichlid is prized in the hobby for its natural beauty, size, and commanding behavior, making it a standout specimen in large freshwater aquariums.

🔎 Quick Facts – Red Guttulatus Cichlid

• 📛 Common Name: Red Guttulatus Cichlid
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Vieja guttulata (commonly referenced; taxonomy may vary by source)
• 🌍 Origin: Central America (Mexico & Guatemala river systems)
• 🎨 Appearance: Red to brick-colored body with blue/white pearly spotting; males more vibrant
• 📏 Adult Size: 12–14 inches (30–36 cm)
• 💎 Availability: Moderate; high-quality red specimens are sought after

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• ⚔️ Highly aggressive and territorial, especially during breeding
• 🧠 Intelligent and assertive; establishes dominance quickly
• 🐟 Best kept alone or with equally large, aggressive Central American cichlids
• 👑 Males are more colorful and dominant than females

🏠 Aquarium & Tank Requirements

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 90 gallons (125+ gallons recommended for adults)
• 🪵 Large open swimming areas with sturdy décor
• 🪨 Use heavy rocks and driftwood; secure all decorations
• 🌿 Minimal plants—most will be uprooted or destroyed
• 🔁 Strong filtration required due to size and waste production

💧 Water Parameters – Red Guttulatus Cichlid Care

• 🌡️ Water Temperature: 76–82°F (24–28°C)
• ⚗️ pH Range: 7.0–8.0
• 💧 Water Hardness: Moderate to hard
• 🚿 Regular water changes essential for coloration and health

🍽️ Diet – What Do Red Guttulatus Cichlids Eat?

• 🐟 High-quality large cichlid pellets
• 🦐 Frozen shrimp, krill, and prawns
• 🐚 Occasional mussels or clam meat (sparingly)
• 🌽 Vegetable matter such as spirulina pellets or blanched peas
• 🚫 Avoid live feeder fish to prevent disease and parasites

📋 Red Guttulatus Cichlid Overview

• 🌍 Origin: Central America (Mexico & Guatemala)
• 📏 Max Size: 12–14 inches
• 😇 Temperament: Aggressive, highly territorial
• 🏠 Tank Size: 90+ gallons
• ⚗️ pH Range: 7.0–8.0
• 🌡️ Temperature: 76–82°F
• 🍽️ Diet: Omnivorous – pellets, shrimp, krill, vegetable matter
• 🎯 Ideal For: Experienced aquarists, large aggressive cichlid tanks

✨ Why Choose a Red Guttulatus Cichlid?

The Red Guttulatus Cichlid offers natural red coloration, impressive size, and raw Central American cichlid power. For aquarists who appreciate bold behavior and commanding presence, this species delivers a true wild-type showpiece that rivals hybrids in impact while retaining authentic lineage.