Firemouth Cichlid

Thorichthys meeki

Minimum Tank Size

40–55 gal

Temperature

75–82°F

PH

6.5–8.0

Adult Size

5–6 in

Temperament 

Semi-aggressive; territorial during breeding

Care Difficulty

Intermediate

Diet & Feeding

Omnivore; quality cichlid pellets plus varied frozen/live foods.

Care Instructions

Provide sand, caves/wood and defined territories.

Flow & Filtration

Strong filtration with moderate flow.

Planted Tank Suitability

Possible with hardy plants; may dig.

Tank Mate Compatibility

Good Tank Mates

  • Larger Tetras
  • Swordtails
  • Bristlenose Pleco

Use Caution 

  • Other Medium Cichlids
  • Severum

Avoid

  • Tiny Fish
  • Betta
  • Shrimp

Compatibility Notes

Usually manageable outside breeding, but spawning pairs become territorial.

Breeding Notes

Substrate spawner with parental care.