Rio Chacamax Cichlid - (Vieja bifasciata)

🐟 Rio Chacamax Cichlid - (Vieja bifasciata) – Colorful and Robust Central American Cichlid for Sale

The Red-Spotted Cichlid (Vieja bifasciata) is a stunning Central American cichlid known for its brilliant red spotting across the body, contrasted against a metallic base color that can shift from gold to green depending on mood and maturity. Originating from the Rio Chacamax in Mexico, this fish is both hardy and highly territorial, making it best suited for experienced cichlid keepers with large aquariums.

With proper care, these fish develop intense coloration and can live for many years, becoming the dominant centerpiece of any large cichlid tank.

🔎 Quick Facts – Red-Spotted Cichlid (Vieja bifasciata)

• 📛 Common Names: Red-Spotted Cichlid
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Vieja bifasciata
• 🌍 Origin: Mexico – Rio Chacamax
• 🎨 Appearance: Metallic gold/green body with vibrant red spotting and darker facial markings
• 📏 Max Size: 12–14 inches (30–35 cm)
• 💎 Availability: Occasionally available; mostly wild-caught or specialty-bred

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• ⚔️ Highly territorial and aggressive, especially when breeding
• 🐟 Best kept with other large, robust Central American cichlids
• 👫 Forms monogamous breeding pairs
• 🪵 Intelligent and responsive to keepers

🏠 Aquarium & Tank Requirements

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 125+ gallons for a pair
• 🌿 Sandy substrate with large rocks and driftwood for territories
• 🪵 Open swimming space with sight breaks to reduce aggression
• 💡 Moderate lighting to showcase colors
• 🌊 Strong filtration to handle heavy bio-load

💧 Water Parameters – Red-Spotted Cichlid Care

• 🌡️ Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 7.0–8.0
• 💧 Hardness: Moderately hard to hard water

🍽️ Diet – Omnivorous (Vegetable-Rich)

• 🌾 High-quality cichlid pellets with spirulina
• 🦐 Frozen krill, shrimp, and mysis
• 🪱 Worms and insect larvae (as treats)
• 🥬 Blanched spinach, zucchini, or peas

📋 Red-Spotted Cichlid Care Overview Table

✨ Highlight:

• The Red-Spotted Cichlid is a striking, powerful Central American species with intense coloration and a bold personality—ideal for aquarists with the space and experience to meet its needs.