Vieja Marble

The Fenestratus Cichlid is a large growing species that is native to freshwater rivers and lakes in Southern Mexico. It is morphologically varied and has been found in the wild in a variety of colour or pattern forms. Due to its magnificent pattern of black, iridescent blue, and reddish-orange patches on a base pure white body colour, the Marble, Black and White, or Calico form is a relatively recent addition to the hobby and is highly sought.

This pattern will change dramatically as the fish matures, resulting in a truly unique and impressive show fish as an adult. They are aggressive, boisterous fish that requires plenty of open swimming space as well as cover in the aquarium. Because they are water quality sensitive, frequent large water changes should be considered essential for long-term success with this species.

II. You would love the fish because…

The Fenestratus Cichlid is a large growing Cichlid native to freshwater rivers and lakes in Southern Mexico. It is a morphologically variable species that is known to occur in several different colours or pattern forms in the wild. The Marble, Black and White, or Calico form is a relatively new addition to the hobby and is in high demand due to its stunning pattern of black, iridescent blue, and reddish-orange patches on a base pure white body colour.

This pattern will change dramatically as the fish matures, resulting in a truly unique and impressive show fish as an adult. They are an aggressive, boisterous fish that requires plenty of open swimming space as well as cover in the aquarium. They are affected by water quality.

III. Is this fish species peaceful or hostile?

A moderately aggressive species.

IV. Species compatibility

A species that is moderately aggressive. If enough rock and bogwood is provided to form sufficient territories for all the fish, it may be possible to successfully keep this species in a community of robust Central American cichlids. If you try this, there is no guarantee of success. A bonded couple will often live happily ever after, but care should be taken to ensure that the female is not bullied.

V. How to feed this species?

Although gut analyses of wild specimens show that it also feeds on insects and other invertebrates as well as plant matter in nature, this species is not picky about what it eats in captivity. As the primary diet, feed a high-quality cichlid pellet. Supplement with meaty foods like prawns, mussels, and white fish. Spirulina or algae wafers are examples of vegetable matter that should be included in the diet.