Twoband cichlid - Vieja bifasciata

Scientific name: Vieja bifasciata

Common name: Twoband cichlid

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 26 - 30 cm (10.24 - 11.81 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 7 - 7.9

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 10 - 23°N (178.57 - 410.71ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 22 - 28 °C (71.6 - 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

In their natural habitat, Twoband Cichlids are constant grazers of algae and plant material. To replicate their diet in captivity, it’s important to provide a vegetable-rich menu. Offer them high-quality spirulina flakes, vegetable-based pellets, blanched spinach, and shelled peas. Occasional protein treats such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and chopped prawns can be given, but should not dominate their diet. A plant-based diet helps maintain their digestion and enhances their vibrant coloration.

Origin

Vieja bifasciata is native to Central America, particularly the Grijalva and Usumacinta river systems in Mexico, Guatemala, and Belize. These rivers are typically warm, slow-flowing, and densely vegetated, offering plenty of hiding spots among roots, branches, and rocks.

Sexing

Mature males are generally larger than females and display brighter, more vivid colors, especially during spawning. Females tend to appear duller and smaller, with less pronounced coloration. In dominant males, a slight nuchal hump (on the forehead) may also be visible.

Breeding

Breeding Twoband Cichlids is relatively straightforward in the right conditions. Provide bogwood, flat stones, or large leaves to serve as spawning sites. Once a pair forms a bond, they will choose and clean a surface before the female lays the eggs. During incubation, the female guards the eggs, while the male defends the territory.

The eggs typically hatch within 72 hours, and fry become free-swimming a few days later. At this stage, they require feeding 2–3 times per day with newly hatched brine shrimp or finely crushed flake food. Parental care can be strong, but occasional aggression between mates is possible, so monitoring is advised.

Lifespan

With proper care, Vieja bifasciata can live for 5 to 8 years, although some specimens may live longer under optimal conditions and with a well-maintained environment.

Temperament and Compatibility

While peaceful towards their own species, especially in established pairs, Twoband Cichlids can show aggression towards smaller or similarly shaped fish, especially during breeding. They are best kept with other large, robust Central American cichlids that can tolerate occasional displays of dominance.

Aggression levels can vary by individual; even bonded pairs may experience sudden shifts in behavior, so it’s essential to have visual barriers and plenty of space in the tank.

Tank Setup and Requirements

Twoband Cichlids require a spacious aquarium, ideally over 300 liters (80 gallons) for a pair, with strong filtration to manage their high waste production. Include driftwood, rocks, and plants with strong roots or protected bases, such as Java fern or Anubias, to mimic their natural habitat. Open swimming areas and hiding spots help reduce stress and aggression.

They thrive in moderately hard to hard water (10–23 dGH), with a pH range of 7.0–7.9 and temperatures between 22–28 °C (71.6–82.4 °F). Weekly water changes are crucial to maintaining water quality.

Short Description

Vieja bifasciata, or the Twoband Cichlid, is a stunning and intelligent fish known for its vibrant appearance and complex social behavior. Though they’re relatively undemanding in terms of care, they require clean, well-filtered water, a balanced diet, and careful observation of their interactions—especially during breeding. With proper care and a thoughtfully arranged tank, these cichlids can become a rewarding centerpiece of a Central American biotope aquarium.

Picture

Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.