Window cichlid - Vieja fenestratus

Scientific name: Vieja fenestratus

Common name: Window cichlid

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 35 - 40 cm (13.78 - 15.75 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 7.2 - 8

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 4 - 12°N (71.43 - 214.29ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 23 - 27 °C (73.4 - 80.6°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: Central America

Temperament to its own species: aggressive/territorial

Temperament toward other fish species: aggressive/territorial

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Tank Requirements

Window Cichlids (Vieja fenestratus) are large, aggressive fish that require substantial space to thrive. These cichlids grow to an impressive 35-40 cm (13.78-15.75 inches) and need a tank of at least 150 gallons (568 liters) for a single specimen. If keeping a pair, a much larger aquarium is required, as the male can become highly aggressive toward the female, especially during breeding. Provide plenty of hiding spots using rocks, caves, and plants to create natural barriers. This allows the female to retreat and reduce aggression from the male.

These fish are diggers, so it’s important to use a sandy substrate. They will uproot plants and rearrange the tank, so be prepared for regular maintenance. Strong filtration is essential, as they produce a lot of waste. Weekly water changes of 20-30% are necessary to maintain optimal water quality and keep the fish healthy. The water temperature should be kept between 23-27°C (73.4-80.6°F), with a pH range of 7.2-8, and water hardness between 4-12°N (71.43-214.29 ppm).

Tank Setup

In addition to a sandy substrate, Vieja fenestratus appreciates plenty of rocks, wood, and caves to explore and establish territories. The tank should have low water flow to mimic their natural habitat, which consists of slow-moving rivers in South Mexico. Décor such as upturned plant pots can also be used to provide extra hiding spots.

Avoid keeping these fish with smaller or more delicate species, as they are highly territorial and can become aggressive, particularly during breeding. Any tankmates should be of a similar size and temperament, such as larger cichlids or robust species that can tolerate the aggressive behavior of the Window Cichlid.

Tankmates

Because of their territorial nature, finding suitable tankmates for Window Cichlids can be challenging. They are best kept in species-only tanks or with other large, equally aggressive cichlids. Some potential tankmates include:

• Oscar Cichlid (Astronotus ocellatus)
• Firemouth Cichlid (Thorichthys meeki)
• Jack Dempsey Cichlid (Cichlasoma octofasciatum)
• Severum Cichlid (Heros efasciatus)

It’s important to monitor any aggression and ensure all fish have enough space to establish territories.

Food and Feeding

Window Cichlids are omnivorous and require a balanced diet that includes both vegetable matter and protein. A high-quality cichlid pellet can be used as the staple food, supplemented with live or frozen treats such as bloodworms, earthworms, and brine shrimp. Offering vegetable-based foods like spirulina flakes, blanched spinach, and zucchini is essential to maintain their health and vibrant coloration.

It’s important not to overfeed, as these fish are prone to obesity. Feeding them twice a day, providing only as much as they can consume within a few minutes, will help maintain proper health and water quality.

Sexing

Determining the sex of Vieja fenestratus can be difficult when they are young. However, as they mature, males are typically larger and develop a prominent nuchal hump (a fatty deposit on their forehead). Males also tend to have more intense coloration, especially during breeding periods.

Breeding

Breeding Window Cichlids is relatively straightforward if provided with the right conditions. These fish are substrate spawners and will lay their eggs on a flat surface, usually a rock or the tank bottom. The male will become highly territorial during this time, so it’s essential to remove any other tankmates to prevent aggression. The pair should be provided with plenty of hiding spots and a large enough tank to reduce stress on the female.

After the female lays her eggs, both parents will guard the nest. The eggs, which have a pinkish hue, will hatch within 3-4 days, depending on water temperature. Once the fry become free-swimming, they can be fed on newly hatched brine shrimp. To improve survival rates, consider moving the fry to a separate grow-out tank where they can easily access food without competition.

Lifespan

With proper care, Vieja fenestratus can live for around 8 years in captivity. Maintaining a clean tank environment with stable water conditions is key to ensuring a long and healthy life for these impressive cichlids.

Short Description

Also known as the Window Cichlid, Vieja fenestratus is a large and territorial fish native to the rivers of South Mexico. Known for their striking color patterns and aggressive behavior, they require large tanks with plenty of hiding spaces to thrive. While they are not commonly found in the aquarium trade due to their aggressive nature, they make an excellent choice for experienced aquarists who can meet their space and care needs. Their omnivorous diet and territorial nature make them fascinating, albeit challenging, fish to keep in a home aquarium.