Fin's Fish Guide
The Blue flash (Thorichthys aureus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The blue flash cichlid is a colourful cichlid from Central America. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a pearly, gold-green to bluish shining body with a dark blotch on the flank and gill cover. It inhabits warm lakes and lagoons but prefers the lower and middle reaches of rivers; a limited part of the population lives in the upper reaches. As a bottom feeder it searches the soft bottom for small invertebrates and plant matter. Like related species the male spreads its throat pouch when threatened as a display. Owing to limited data the species is assessed as Data Deficient (DD). It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blue flash?
The Blue flash has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a plain pattern. Glossy golden-green to bluish; when threatened the male spreads its throat pouch as a display.
Where does the Blue flash live?
The Blue flash lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Central America; warm rivers, lakes and lagoons.
How big does the Blue flash get?
The Blue flash grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Blue flash dangerous to humans?
No, the Blue flash is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Blue flash edible?
The Blue flash is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Thorichthys
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Blue flash?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blue flash is one of 12,519 species in the app.