Tailbar cichlid - Vieja hartwegi

Scientific name: Vieja hartwegi

Common name: Tailbar cichlid

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 20 - 30 cm (7.87 - 11.81 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 7 - 8

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 12 - 21°N (214.29 - 375ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 24 - 28 °C (75.2 - 82.4°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: Central America

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: aggressive to smaller

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Food and Feeding

Tailbar Cichlids (Vieja hartwegi) require a well-balanced diet that includes both vegetable matter and protein-rich foods. For their staple diet, use high-quality cichlid flakes or pellets, ideally supplemented with spirulina flakes to enhance their coloration and provide essential nutrients. In addition to commercial foods, it's important to offer them a variety of fresh or frozen foods to ensure they receive a complete diet. Incorporate meaty foods such as prawns, mussels, and cockles into their feeding routine. These cichlids have a strong appetite, so be sure to avoid overfeeding. Feeding them small portions twice a day will help maintain their health and prevent water quality issues caused by excess waste.

Origin

The Tailbar Cichlid is native to Central America, specifically found in the freshwater waterways of Mexico and Guatemala. They thrive in the slow-moving rivers and lakes in this region, often preferring areas with rocky substrates and ample vegetation. These natural habitats provide them with plenty of hiding spots and a rich source of both plant and animal matter. Understanding their origin is crucial for replicating similar conditions in the aquarium, which helps keep them healthy and stress-free.

Sexing

Sexing Tailbar Cichlids can be relatively straightforward, especially once they reach maturity. Males are generally larger and exhibit more vibrant coloration than females. One of the most distinctive features of mature males is the development of a prominent nuchal hump on their heads, a characteristic often seen in many cichlid species. Females tend to be smaller with a rounder body shape, especially when they are ready to spawn.

Breeding

Breeding Tailbar Cichlids in captivity can be a rewarding experience but requires careful observation. The male typically digs a pit in the substrate as a nesting site. During the courting process, the male can become more aggressive towards the female, so it's essential to monitor their behavior closely. If the female shows signs of excessive stress or injury, it's advisable to separate her temporarily and try again later. Once the female lays her eggs in the pit, they usually hatch within 2-3 days. A few days after hatching, the fry become free-swimming and should be fed newly hatched brine shrimp immediately. As they grow, you can gradually introduce crushed flake food and micro worms to their diet.

Lifespan

The Tailbar Cichlid has an expected lifespan of around 8 years. With proper care, including a nutritious diet, a spacious tank, and consistent water quality, some individuals may even live longer, offering aquarists years of enjoyment and observation.

Tank Setup and Environment

Tailbar Cichlids are high waste producers, so a spacious aquarium with excellent filtration is essential. A tank of at least 200 liters (50 gallons) is recommended for a single pair, with larger tanks being ideal for community setups. Use a sandy or fine gravel substrate, as these cichlids enjoy digging, especially during the breeding process. Decorate the tank with plenty of rocks, driftwood, and sturdy plants to provide hiding spots and create a natural environment. Maintain water parameters with a pH between 7.0 and 8.0 and a temperature range of 24-28°C (75.2-82.4°F). Regular water changes are crucial to keep the water clean and reduce nitrate buildup.

Due to their territorial nature, Tailbar Cichlids are best kept with other robust, similarly sized fish. They may coexist peacefully with their tank mates most of the time, but they can exhibit sudden aggression, especially during spawning. Always monitor their behavior, and be prepared to separate them if necessary to prevent injuries to other fish.

Short Description

Vieja hartwegi, commonly known as the Tailbar Cichlid, is a large, striking fish known for its vibrant colors and robust personality. While they are typically peaceful towards their own species, they can become aggressive towards smaller or similarly sized fish, particularly during breeding. As high waste producers, they require a well-filtered tank to maintain water quality. With proper care, these cichlids can be a fascinating and rewarding addition to a well-planned aquarium setup.

Picture

Thanks to Jonathon Whipple.