Cichlid
Care basics
Firemouths are named for the bright red on the throat and chest that males show off. They are a great first Central American cichlid.
They like to sift and dig in sand, so use smooth substrate and sturdy decor. Keep them with fish that are not too aggressive or they may be bullied.
Quick facts
| Scientific name | Thorichthys meeki |
|---|---|
| Group | Central American |
| Native to | Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, Belize and Guatemala |
| Adult size | About 6 inches |
| Tank size | 40 gallons for a pair, 55 gallons or more in a community |
| Temperature | 75 to 82 F |
| pH | 6.5 to 8.0 |
| Temperament | Mild for a Central American cichlid. Males flare their bright red throats to bluff rather than fight. |
Sizes and ranges are typical hobby figures. Individual fish and local water vary, so test your water and ask your fish store about the specific fish you buy.
