Redhead cichlid
(Vieja synspila)

As for the choice of the tank, the large size of about 35 cm or 13.5 inch and the rather passive nature of the Synspilum makes it a less difficult species than the other Vieja. Thus, an aquarium of 200 x 60 cm or 80 x 24 inch (front x width) floor surface will be perfect for a couple. For a community aquarium, aim for at least 250 x 60 cm or 100 x 24 inch (about 1000 L or 220 Imp Gal or 264 US Gal).

For the soil, opt for a non-cutting substrate like the Loire sand because this fish likes to dig in the ground. It must be avoided that it gets hurt during this activity. Note that pool sand can also be a good alternative.

For the decor, mimic its natural environment composed of rocks, roots and sand. Thus, the ideal aquarium for Motaguensis will consist of roots and hiding places formed with stones. No plant should be added on pain of seeing it mixed and eaten in a short time.

To avoid any pollution, change the water of your aquarium regularly: a renewal of 10% of the total volume will be necessary each week. Also plan a filtration of at least 5x the volume of your tank per hour to obtain a quality water.

Tip: Adding Pothos and external filtering plants will be very useful for keeping nitrates low. Indeed, these plants will consume the nitrates and thus keep a good quality of water. This will allow you to change only 10% of the volume per week (which is already 60 liters or 13 Imp Gal or 16 US Gal for the specific aquarium). Without these plants, the amount of water to renew is much higher (30%), as well as your water bill! So do not hesitate to use them if you want to avoid selling your aquarium to pay your water bill.