Firemouth Cichlid (Thorichthys meeki)

Fish in the family Cichlidae. Easy care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameThorichthys meeki

FamilyCichlidae

Also known asFiremouth, Cichlasoma meeki

Care levelEasy

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentSemi Aggressive

Dietomnivore

Adult size6 in

Minimum tank size40 gallons

Water parametersTemp 72-82°F, pH 6.5-8.0, GH 8-20 dGH

Appearance

Pearly grey body with a brilliant red-orange throat and belly; males flare the throat and gill covers in display.

Difficulty and care for the Firemouth Cichlid

Easy

Origin and habitat

Central America (Mexico, Guatemala, Belize)

Keeper notes

Largely bluff-based aggression — flares its red throat to intimidate rather than fight. Moderately territorial when breeding; fairly community-tolerant for a cichlid.

Log Firemouth Cichlid in your reef tank

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