Black Belt Cichlid

Vieja maculicauda

CichlidsIntermediate
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Species Details

Large, impressive cichlid with distinctive black belt markings, less aggressive than many similar-sized species.

Intermediate Care Level

Basic Information

Size30-35 cm (12-14 inches)
TemperamentSemi-aggressive
DietOmnivorous
Lifespan8-12 years
Tank Size378+ litres (100+ gallons)

Water Parameters

Temperature
22-28°C (72-82°F)
pH Level
6.5-8.0
Hardness
8-25 dGH

Tank Mate Recommendations

Based on 1 selected species

Current Selection:

Black Belt Cichlid
Fully Compatible Species
Compatible

Angelfish

Pterophyllum scalare

Cichlids
Size:15 cm tall, 20 cm long (6 inches tall, 8 inches long)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful/Semi-aggressive
100%
Compatible

Tanganyikan Cichlids

Various Lamprologus, Julidochromis, Neolamprologus

Cichlids
Size:5-20 cm (2-8 inches)
Care Level:Intermediate
Temperament:Semi-aggressive
100%
Compatible

Tetras

Various Tetra species

Characins
Size:2.5-7.5 cm (1-3 inches)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful
100%
Compatible

Pleco Catfish

Various Hypostomus, Pterygoplichthys species

Catfish
Size:15-45 cm (6-18 inches)
Care Level:Intermediate
Temperament:Peaceful but territorial
100%
Compatible

Barbs

Various Barbus, Puntius species

Cyprinids
Size:5-15 cm (2-6 inches)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful/Semi-aggressive
100%
Compatible

Discus

Symphysodon species

Cichlids
Size:15-20 cm (6-8 inches)
Care Level:Advanced
Temperament:Peaceful/Semi-aggressive
100%

💡 Tank Mate Tips

• Consider adult size when planning tank space

• Research specific water parameter requirements

• Introduce new fish gradually to reduce stress

• Monitor behavior closely during the first weeks

Quick Facts

Large cichlid with distinctive black band pattern

Less aggressive than many large Central Americans

Beautiful silver body with black markings

Males develop nuchal hump and extended fins

Can be kept with other large, robust cichlids

Excellent parents with strong family bonds

Live 8-12 years typically

Native to Central America

Also called Black Belt or Quetzal cichlid

Require large tanks due to adult size

Compatibility Summary

Compatible Species6
Requires Caution5
View full compatibility analysis →

Care Requirements

Tank Size378+ litres (100+ gallons)
Temperature22-28°C (72-82°F)
pH6.5-8.0
Hardness8-25 dGH

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