Our Guide To Keeping Firemouth Cichlid Fish

1. About Fish Species:

   • Scientific name: Thorichthys meeki
   • Common name: Firemouth Cichlid
   • Family: Cichlidae
   • Origin: Central America, specifically in the Yucatan Peninsula
   • Adult length: 15 cm (6 inches)
   • Lifespan: 10 to 15 years

2. Tank Setup:

   • Firemouth Cichlids prefer a tank with a minimum size of 75 gallons for a pair or small group.
   • Provide hiding spots with caves, rocks, and driftwood while leaving open swimming areas.

3. Water Parameters:

   • Keep the water temperature between 75 to 82°F (24 to 28°C).
   • Maintain a pH level between 6.5 to 7.5.

4. Filtration and Water Flow:

   • Utilize a powerful filter to maintain water quality as Firemouth Cichlids are moderate waste producers.

5. Diet:

   • Offer a varied diet including high-quality pellets, flakes, and live or frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp.
   • Supplement their diet with vegetables and occasional treats like earthworms.

6. Tank mates:

   • Compatible with peaceful fish species such as tetras, peaceful barbs, and larger peaceful cichlids.
   • Avoid housing them with aggressive or overly territorial species.

7. Behavior and Compatibility:

   • Firemouth Cichlids can be territorial, especially during breeding, so provide adequate space and hiding spots to reduce aggression.
   • They are generally peaceful towards similarly sized tank mates but may show aggression towards smaller fish.