The most distinctive feature of the Vieja Synspilum is its reddish-orange head, which gives the fish its common name: Redhead or Firehead Cichlid. Not terribly colorful as juveniles, their colors come into their own as they mature: with the males being more colorful. The photos are of the actual 2" and 3" fish we have for sale.

Although Synspilum are less aggressive than many of their close relatives they are best kept as either an established male/female pair, or as the only fish of its species in the aquarium, as they are generally peaceful toward other like sized Central American cichlids, but far less tolerant toward their own kind.

A large tank, with appropriate hiding spots, is also essential, because these fish have a wide girth and grow to about 14 inches.