Firemouth Cichlid

The Firemouth Cichlid (Thorichthys meeki) is a beautiful and moderately sized Central American cichlid known for its striking red throat and underside that intensifies during breeding and displays. These attractive fish feature a silver-blue body with dramatic red coloration on the throat and belly, creating a stunning contrast. While they can be territorial when breeding, Firemouth Cichlids are generally more peaceful than many other cichlids and make excellent choices for community cichlid tanks. Their interesting behavior and beautiful appearance make them popular among cichlid enthusiasts.

Care Sheet – Firemouth Cichlid (Thorichthys meeki)

Temperament

• Generally peaceful for a cichlid, territorial when breeding

• Best kept in pairs or small groups

Adult Size

• 5–6 inches

Minimum Tank Size

• 30 gallons for a pair

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 75–82°F

• pH: 6.5–8.0

• Hardness: Moderate to hard (8–15 dGH)

• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm

• Nitrate: <20–30 ppm

Diet

• Omnivorous

• Feed a varied diet:

  • High-quality cichlid pellets or flakes

  • Frozen or live foods: bloodworms, brine shrimp

  • Vegetable matter

• Feed small amounts 1–2 times daily

Behavior & Compatibility

• Good for community cichlid tanks

• Compatible with:

  • Other peaceful cichlids of similar size

  • Larger tetras, peaceful barbs, and catfish

  • Other robust fish that can hold their own

• Avoid very small or timid fish

Aquarium Setup

• Plenty of hiding spots with rocks, driftwood, and caves

• Open swimming areas

• Efficient filtration for clean water

• Sand or fine gravel substrate

Care Level

• Easy to moderate

• Good for intermediate aquarists

Lifespan

• 8–10 years with proper care

Special Notes

• Striking red throat and underside that intensifies during displays

• More peaceful than many other Central American cichlids

• Interesting behavior including digging and territory defense

• Beautiful addition to community cichlid tanks