Species profile
Firemouth Cichlid
Thorichthys meeki
Semi aggressive
Easy care
180 L minimum aquarium
10–15 cm adult size
Mid bottom
Can be kept singly
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Relatively manageable Central American cichlid best given sand, wood and open floor space. The red throat-flaring display is normal territorial communication.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
22–30 °C
pH
6–8.2
GH
6–18 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low–moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Can be kept singly
Tank zone
Mid bottom
Territory level
Moderate
Predation risk
Small fish
Bioload factor
2.5
Generally less combative than many similarly sized Central American cichlids, but pairs become territorial while breeding. Avoid tiny or very timid tankmates.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Caution
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
Yes
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
180 L
Minimum footprint
120 × 40 cm
Accepted scientific name
Thorichthys meeki
Alternative names
Firemouth
Native range
Atlantic drainages of Mexico, Belize and Guatemala.
Natural habitat
Lowland rivers, canals, ditches, lagoons and ponds with mud or sand, submerged wood, leaf litter and marginal vegetation.
Diet & feeding
Feed a varied complete cichlid diet with small invertebrate/frozen foods and some plant material.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Males are usually larger, more strongly coloured and develop longer pointed dorsal and anal fin extensions.
Breeding
Biparental substrate spawner. Pairs clean a flat surface, guard the clutch and care for fry; territoriality rises sharply during this period.