Cichlasoma Argentea Vieja Silver White Cichlid 5cm

Overview

The White Cichlid, Vieja argentea, is a large Central American cichlid with a pearly silver-white body scattered with black blotches and a dark stripe through the tail. Adults develop a deep, imposing profile and males a prominent nuchal hump. Endemic to the Usumacinta drainage of Mexico, it suits experienced keepers with big tanks.

• Adult Size: Around 30 cm (12 in); males larger than females
• Lifespan: 10–15 years

Origin

• Native to: Río Usumacinta drainage, southern Mexico and Guatemala
• Habitat: Slow rivers and lagoons over rock, wood and sand

Feeding

• Diet: Omnivorous, largely herbivorous in nature
• Preferred Foods: Cichlid pellets, spirulina flake, algae wafers, prawn, mussel, white fish
• Feeding Habits: Feed once daily with plenty of vegetable matter

Tank Mates

• Best with: Other large, robust Central American cichlids, big plecs, silver dollars
• Avoid: Small, timid or slow fish; same-species rivals in small tanks

Aggression & Behaviour

• Temperament: Aggressive, particularly towards its own kind
• Territoriality: Strongly territorial, especially when spawning

Experience Level

• Difficulty: Intermediate to advanced
• Challenges: Large adult size, aggression, heavy waste needing big filtration

Water Parameters

• Water Type: Freshwater, moderately hard and neutral to alkaline
• Temperature: 26–30°C (79–86°F)
• pH: 7.0–8.0
• Hardness: 10–15 dGH
• Flow: Moderate
• Tank Size: Minimum 450 litres for a pair; larger for a cichlid community

Final Notes

This is not the mild community fish it is sometimes described as: adults are big, boisterous and bullish, and growth is fast. Males grow larger with extended fins and a nuchal hump; bonded pairs spawn readily on stones or in caves and guard fry fiercely, so a divider or spare tank is wise. Secure rockwork and use sand, as it digs and rearranges decor. For those with space, it is a striking, characterful showpiece.