Silver Cichlid.

Vieja Arentea is a species of cichlid native to Central America where it occurs in the Usumacinta River drainage in the countries of Mexico.

Adult Length: 35cm

Temperature Range 24 - 30°C

pH Range: 7.0

Special Requirements: 48″ x 24″ x 24″ (120cm x 60cm x 60cm) – 500 litres. For a pair of adult fish. Tank setup is not critical as the fish will arrange the decor to suit itself. Rocks, bogwood and branches can be used but ensure they are securely positioned to prevent the aquarium glass being broken, should the fish dislodge them. Sand or fine gravel substrate is recommended. Lighting levels are not critical and decent filtration should be provided.

Tanks Mates: A moderately aggressive species. It may be possible to successfully keep this species in a community of robust Central American cichlids, if enough rock and bogwood is provided to form sufficient territories for all the fish. There is no guarantee of success if trying this. A bonded pair will often live quite happily together but care should be taken to ensure the female is not bullied.

Feeding: . Primarily herbivorous in the wild, this species is not a fussy eater in captivity. Use a good quality cichlid pellet as the staple diet. Supplement this with meaty foods such as prawn, mussel and white fish. Vegetable matter in the form of spirulina or algae wafers should form an important part of the diet.

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