Fin's Fish Guide
The Firemouth (Thorichthys meeki) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 17 cm.
Central America; lower reaches and middle reaches of rivers with slow-flowing water.
Description
The firemouth cichlid is a popular cichlid from Central America, named after the fiery red colour of its throat and belly. The species grows to about 17 cm and has a pearl-grey body with a few dark spots and bars. It inhabits the lower and middle reaches of rivers in slow-moving water, in mud- and sand-bottomed canals and rocky pools, and stays close to shoreline vegetation for protection. As an omnivore it searches the bottom for small invertebrates and plant matter. When threatened the male spreads its bright red throat pouch to appear larger and more dangerous. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Firemouth?
The Firemouth has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Fiery red throat and belly; when threatened the male spreads its red throat pouch as display behaviour.
Where does the Firemouth live?
The Firemouth lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Central America; lower reaches and middle reaches of rivers with slow-flowing water.
How big does the Firemouth get?
The Firemouth grows to a maximum of about 17 cm. On average the species is around 6 cm.
Is the Firemouth dangerous to humans?
No, the Firemouth is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Firemouth edible?
The Firemouth is not usually eaten.
More photos
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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 Firemouth?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Firemouth is one of 12,519 species in the app.