Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
Live Plant Safe: No
General Description: The Firemouth Cichlid is one of the most ubiquitous cichlids in the aquarium trade, with a large distribution across various biotopes throughout Mexico and Central America, however the majority of specimens available within the aquarium trade are commercially produced. A hardy and unfussy cichlid, the Firemouth has a relatively plain body but a fiery red throat in which its name comes from. Males grow larger than females with more pointed dorsal and anal fins, and the red in their throat intensifies substantially during spawning. Aside from these few characteristics, females look similar to males. Firemouths do well in groups of 8 or more individuals, as they are quite gregarious. An adult Firemouth can reach a size of approximately 4.5″.
Diet Requirements: Firemouths are primarily benthic omnivores. A diet made up of various high quality vegetable and protein based flake foods and sinking pellet foods are ideal, in addition to offering frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp that contains spirulina algae and other mixed freshwater preparations. Freeze-dried Tubifex worms are also a favorite. Variety is the spice of life in order to maintain color, immune function and longevity of your fish.
Care Requirements: A minimum 55 gallon aquarium is ideal for a pair of Firemouths. A larger group of individuals will require more space, or if the pair is already quite large, size up accordingly. Though they are hardy in nature, Firemouths cannot be put into a biologically immature aquarium. Weekly water changes are encouraged to keep water parameters pristine (Nitrates < 15 ppm), as Firemouths do not like high nitrates and deteriorating water parameters. Otherwise, Firemouths are an adaptable species in terms of the aquascape. The aquarium can be decorated with driftwood or other natural looking furnishings to provide some hiding and spawning areas. Firemouths will do best when kept with other Central American species of similar nature and temperament. Groups of other peaceful upper-dwelling fish can also be considered. Recommended water conditions, 76-82° F, KH 5-25, pH 6.5-8.5.
Purchase Size: Small: 1-1/2” to 2”, Medium: 2” to 3”, Large: 3” to 4”
Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.
