Thorichthys aureus, also known as the Gold Firemouth, is a Central American cichlid with striking metallic blue and gold hues, popular in the aquarium hobby.
Overview
Thorichthys aureus, commonly known as the Gold Firemouth or Blue Flash Cichlid, is a colorful cichlid species native to Central American rivers. Known for its metallic blue body with golden highlights, this fish grows to a length of 12-15 cm and can live for 10-12 years under optimal conditions. It is moderately aggressive but can be a beautiful addition to a well-maintained community tank with appropriate tank mates.
Tank Requirements
The Gold Firemouth thrives in a well-sized aquarium of at least 150 liters. The water temperature should be maintained between 24-28°C with a pH range of 7.0-8.0 and water hardness (GH) of 8-15. The tank should have a sandy substrate and plenty of hiding spots, such as rocks and driftwood, to help reduce territorial behavior. A strong filtration system is essential to maintain water quality.
Feeding and Diet
In the wild, Thorichthys aureus feeds on small invertebrates and plant matter. In captivity, they can be fed a balanced diet of high-quality cichlid pellets, live or frozen foods such as bloodworms or brine shrimp, and occasional vegetable matter like blanched spinach or peas. Regular feeding 2-3 times a day is recommended, but avoid overfeeding.
Care and Maintenance
To maintain good water quality for Gold Firemouth, perform weekly water changes of around 25%. Keep an eye on water parameters, as this species is sensitive to poor conditions. Ensure that there are enough hiding spots and territories within the tank to minimize aggression between tank mates.
Compatibility
Thorichthys aureus is moderately aggressive, particularly when defending its territory or during breeding. It can be housed with other Central American cichlids or similarly sized fish with peaceful to semi-aggressive temperaments. Avoid small or overly aggressive fish, as they may either be bullied or provoke aggression.
Breeding
Breeding Thorichthys aureus is relatively easy. They are substrate spawners and tend to form monogamous pairs. To encourage breeding, maintain clean water and offer a varied diet. Once the eggs are laid, both parents guard the nest and care for the fry. The fry can be fed specialized fry food or crushed flakes once they become free-swimming.