Firemouth cichlid

Thorichthys meeki

A red-orange throat and a dark spot on the gill cover.

A pointed snout, red-orange throat and fine blue markings; flared gill covers make a displaying fish look larger.

Natural habitat: Favours slow middle and lower river reaches, also using muddy or sandy channels and rocky pools near shoreline plants.

Breeding territories and predation on much smaller fish remain concerns.

Appearance and identification

Throat colour, the lower opercular spot and flank blotch are cues, unlike the broad bands of a convict cichlid. Colour changes with state.

Keep pairs and groups with cover, broken sightlines and separation options.

Consider territory, size and feeding competition.

Allow a 120 × 30 cm base for a pair; non-breeding groups of eight or more need more room.

Leave soft sand for foraging and shaded retreats. Keep plants away from the main sifting area.

Offer suitable complete foods, varied aquatic fare and plant ingredients. Sifting sand does not replace feeding.

Sources