Blue Spangled Firemouth Cichlid 5cm

Blue Spangled Firemouth Cichlid

The Thorichthys Ellioti, commonly known as the Ellioti cichlid, is a stunning and underrated fish species that is native to Central America, specifically found in the rivers and lakes of Guatemala, Belize, and Honduras. This cichlid is a popular choice for aquarium enthusiasts due to its vibrant colours and unique patterning whilst also remaining at a fairly small size. It is also a member of the geophagus group of fish which means that these fish offer amazing substrate-sifting behaviors. 

The Ellioti cichlid has a beautiful blend of colours that both contrast really well and complement each other. The base colour is an earthy purple or grey colour that is peppered with neon blue spots. These spots run from head to tail and shimmer under the aquarium lights. The most contrasting aspect of these fish is just below the lateral line where from the cheek to the midsection, these fish develop a fiery red. This is especially pronounced in males however females look just as beautiful. Following this, the red transitions into a deep blue which leads into the tail. The Ellioti cichlid can change its colouration intensely depending on its mood which is a great indication of seeing when it is happy and isn’t. 

Breeding Ellioti cichlids is relatively easy and they are known to be excellent parents. To see the gender of the fish, males tend to have longer and more pointed dorsal and anal fins, while females have shorter and rounder fins. During breeding, the female will lay eggs on a flat surface and the male will fertilize them. The pair will then guard the eggs and fry fiercely which is why they make for such great parents. 

Tank Recommendations for your Ellioti Cichlid

These are fish that prefer to be kept in groups which is why the ideal aquarium volume should be a minimum of 200 liters. A larger footprint in the aquarium is also better as these fish can be slightly territorial in smaller environments. The ideal water temperature should be between 24 -26 degrees with a pH range of 7.0-8.0. A sandy substrate would be ideal as Ellioti cichlids spend a lot of time sifting through the substrate. An aquascape with driftwood along with rocky caves and hiding spots is recommended to mimic their natural habitat. These fish may also uproot stem plants so this should be a matter of caution. 

Suitable Tank Buddies 

The Ellioti cichlid can be kept with peaceful and small but semi-aggressive cichlid species along with larger body community fish. These are not active predators but may eat fish that can fit in their mouths.

Usually compatible

Fire mouth cichlid, convicts, and other Thorichthys species. Also, other Central American cichlids like the Salvini, Jack Dempsey, and Green Terror.

Sometimes compatible

Peaceful bottom feeders such as Corydoras catfish and Plecos, and some peaceful tetras smaller tetra species like emperor tetras. 

Rarely compatible

Aggressive or large cichlids like dovii would easily predate on the smaller Ellioti Cichlid as well as small fish that may be seen as prey.

Feeding your Ellioti cichlid

Ellioti cichlids will take to a wide range of aquarium foods quite easily. In their natural habitat, they are omnivores and will eat insects, crustaceans, and small fish. In captivity, a mixture of high-quality dry, frozen, and live invert-based foods is recommended to keep the fish healthy and happy. Feed them once or twice daily, but only what they can consume in a few minutes to ensure they are well-fed, this can also lead to lower levels of aggression being shown.