FireMouth Cichlid
chichlasoma meeki

It belongs to the family Cichlidae

Click here to learn what a cichlid is.

Cost: $5-45, with the wild caught specimens costing more.

Origin:
Guatemala Yucatan (Mexico)

Description:
Typical cichlid shape, but with a larger head. Upper body more arched then lower one. About 6 inches (15cm).

Color:
Consists of many different colors, the basic solo is a bluish gray with a nice purple sheen. The back tends darker, while the belly is a yellowish olive, the throat an lower jaw define what the fish is called because they are a magnificent brick red. A black line that is often divided in to spots, starts at the top edge of the gill cover and extends all the way to the bas of the tail. In the middle of the body there is a large gray-edged patch.

Sexual Distinction:

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Female will be duller in color, while having less pronounced spines of the anal and dorsal fins.

Tank conditions:
Temperature 68-73 degrees Fahrenheit (20-23 Celsius). Ph and hardness rating that too important, middle ranges with soot this fish best. Does not do well in planted tanks.

Food:
Live food, with a little plant food.

Behavior:
A relatively peaceful fish. Does better with other cichlids.

Sexual maturity and reproduction:
Reach a sexual maturity at around 3 inches (8cm). Pair forming, and when trying to breed you can raise the tank water to 75-79 degrees Fahrenheit or (24-26 Celsius).

Compatibility:
Should be kept with other cichlids. Become territorial.