Black Belt Cichlid (Vieja maculicauda) The stunning Black Belt Cichlid is a resilient yet aggressive species. Juveniles can thrive in a 4ft tank, but adults will need more room (a 6′ x 2′ x 2′ tank is recommended). When keeping multiple adults in the same tank, it’s advisable to find a compatible pair. New arrivals of the same species will not be accepted by the established fish, so adding more later is not recommended. Black Belt Cichlids can typically coexist with other large Central American species that can hold their own; however, small, peaceful tankmates are definitely not a good idea. In their natural habitat, this species has a broad distribution, leading to geographical color variations. Although they are river dwellers, Black Belt Cichlids prefer to move into the lower river valleys where the current is gentler. Submerged tree roots along the banks offer them shelter. When setting up the tank to mimic these conditions, make sure that any bogwood and rocks are secure, as these fish can rearrange decorations. If you want to include plants, opt for plastic or silk varieties, since anything green and leafy will be seen as food. While this species can adapt to a variety of water conditions, they thrive best in hard water with low nitrates, which necessitates frequent large water changes. Other Central American cichlids with a similar temperament can be good tankmates in sufficiently large aquariums that provide enough territory, but fast-moving shoaling species are often a better choice. Once paired and spawning, be prepared for aggression towards other fish. . Pictures are of the fish in stock, if require any more please get in touch all sizes are approx
