Black Belt Cichlid (Vieja maculicauda) is an intermediate-level freshwater fish that needs at least 125 gallons and 72-82°F. A big, strong Central American cichlid sold small but growing to a foot or more. It is a digger with a bad temper toward other cichlids, so it needs a large tank, heavy equipment and tankmates that can handle it.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Vieja maculicauda |
|---|---|
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Origin | Atlantic slope of Central America |
| Adult size | 10-14 in |
| Minimum tank | 125 gallons |
| Temperature | 72-82°F |
| pH | 7.0-8.0 |
| Temperament | Aggressive and territorial |
| Social behavior | Solitary or a mated pair in a very large tank |
| Swim level | Bottom to mid |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Diet | Omnivore: cichlid pellets, vegetable foods, frozen foods |
| Typical lifespan | 10-15 years |
Quick tips
- Plan for a tank of 125 gallons or more for an adult.
- Secure rocks and equipment; it digs and moves decor.
- Do not mix with small or timid fish.
San Diego water
Naturally suited to San Diego's hard, alkaline tap water once it is dechlorinated (the city uses chloramine, so use a conditioner that handles it). Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi