This fish was previously considered to be Vieja synspilum or Paratheraps synspilum, but recent DNA examination has determined that it is the same fish as V. melanura. There are some slight difference in color pattern depending on catch location. These fish grow to large sizes and require a tank at least 6 feet long at maturity and males commonly have a red "chin strap" marking similar to that of Rotkeil severums.
Synspilum prefer a diet high in vegetable matter but will happily accept protein in moderation. Despite their typically territorial and aggressive demeanor, some have reported instances of these fish acting as sort of referees, breaking up fights between other fish in the tank making them a possibly very good candidate for a central American cichlid community tank.