Firemouth Cichlid (Thorichthys meeki)

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Firemouth Cichlid

Thorichthys meeki-3677.jpg
Firemouth Cichlid

Thorichthys meeki

114 Litres (30 US G.)

15.2-16.5cm (6-6.5 ")

sg

Freshwater

pH

6.5 - 8.5

22.2-29.4°C (72 -85 °F)

6-10 °d

1:2 M:F

Omnivore
Pellet Foods
Flake Foods
Live Foods

3-5 years

Family

Cichlidae

This animal is available captive bred



Additional names

Firemouth Cichlid

Additional scientific names

Cichlasoma meeki


Origin

Firemouths are naturally found in the slow moving, murky waters in the Yucatán peninsula and as far south as Guatemala.

Sexing

Males tend to be more colourful, have a redder throat, more pointed fins and an extended dorsal fin.

Tank compatibility

Recommended to be kept in a species only tank or with similar sized Cichlids of the same temperament. These are generally peaceful but males especially can be territorial so are best kept only with robust Cichlid companions or larger robust yet peaceful catfish such as Plecos.

Diet

Will take most foods for Cichlids including high quality pellets and flakes, as well as live/frozen food such as bloodworm, brine shrimp and ghost shrimp.

Feeding regime

Feed small amounts several times a day.

Environment Specifics

They are best kept in larger tanks with lots of rocks, plants, and some driftwood with caves for hiding places.

Behaviour

Generally a great fish when kept with fish around its same size. The Firemouth can become territorial at times, especially during breeding. When threatened, the Firemouth can flare its gills out similar to the behaviour of a Betta.

Identification

A tall and laterally compressed Cichlid. The head is large and pointed. The anal and dorsal fins come to a point. The body colour is light grey to dark slate grey and six to seven, often faint, transverse stripes mark the upper parts. A black spot can be found on the gill cover. The throat and breast are bright red as is the anal fin which also has some iridescent blue spots. The other fins have a red tint with green to blue iridescent spots.

Pictures

Videos

Territorial behaviour towards a human hand: A pair with fry:

External links