Description
Firemouth Cichlid (Thorichthys meeki)
The Firemouth Cichlid is a vibrant and captivating freshwater fish, renowned for its fiery red throat and belly, contrasted against a sleek, silver-blue body. These semi-aggressive cichlids are full of personality and often display fascinating behaviours, particularly during breeding. Their hardy nature and stunning appearance make them a popular choice for aquarists with medium to large aquariums.
Care Guide
• Tank Requirements:
• Minimum tank size: 30 gallons (120 litres) for a pair.
• Temperature: 23–28°C (74–82°F).
• pH: 6.5–8.0.
• Substrate: Fine sand is ideal for their natural digging behaviour.
• Decorations: Include rocks, caves, and driftwood to provide hiding spots and establish territories.
• Diet:
Omnivorous; feed high-quality cichlid pellets, flakes, frozen foods like brine shrimp and bloodworms, and occasional vegetables such as blanched spinach or peas.
• Tank Mates:
Compatible with other semi-aggressive species of similar size, such as other Central American cichlids, rainbowfish, and larger tetras. Avoid smaller, timid fish or overly aggressive tank mates.
• Care Tips:
• Provide a spacious tank with defined territories to minimise aggression.
• Keep as a pair or in a single-specimen setup to reduce territorial disputes.
• Regular water changes are essential to maintain water quality.
The Firemouth Cichlid’s striking colours and bold personality make it a centrepiece in any aquarium, offering both beauty and engaging behaviour for aquarists seeking a semi-aggressive species.