Firemouth Cichlid (Thorichthys meeki)
Care level: Easy
Max Size: 25cm
Temp: 24-30°C
PH: 6.8 - 8.0
Approximate purchase size: 5-6cm
Diet: Omnivore
Compatibility: Community
The Firemouth Cichlid is a relatively easy going species from South America. It is a cichlid that prefers to stay at the bottom of the aquarium and they prefer to be in groups. Unlike many South American species, these fish prefer their water to be a little more on the hard and alkaline side, so keep that in mind when selecting tank mates. The aquarium should be at least 5ft in length for a group of these fish. Firemouths like to sift to find their food, so it's imperative that the substrate is soft sand. The sand cannot be sharp as they only eat small morsels of food and expel the sand through their gills. The addition of bog wood and smooth rocks, as well as robust plants will give the cichlids stimulation and hiding places.
They are a pretty laidback cichlid when not breeding and tend to settle disputes in the group by simply flaring their gills at each other. This doesn't tend to escalate to any real fighting. For this reason, they should not be kept with any particularly aggressive species as they won't be able to defend themselves.
Ideal tank mates include Severums and Acaras, as well as some of the larger Tetras, Livebearers, Angelfish, Barbs and Rainbowfish. Avoid Corydoras as they will be in danger if the firemouths decide to spawn.
Please note that the image is for illustration purposes and the fish you will receive may not be identical. These fish are still juveniles and have yet to colour up. A healthy environment and good quality food will help bring them into full colour. If you have any questions about keeping these fish, please don't hesitate to ask a member of staff.
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