Elliot's Cichlid

Thorichthys ellioti is the Mexican close relative of the firemouth cichlid (T. meeki). Its silver–gray body is covered with shiny blue spots; dark blotches are lined up along the middle of the body, and the throat and belly are orange–red. It uses the dark spot on the lower gill cover for display against rivals. Its old name, Thorichthys maculipinnis, is now considered a synonym of this species.

• At least 150 liters and 100 cm of length for a pair.
• Fine sand substrate is a must; it takes sand into its mouth and sifts it.
• Territory borders made with rocks, roots and caves; rooted plants may be uprooted.
• Moderately hard, slightly alkaline water; change 25–30% weekly.

Omnivorous. Make small sinking cichlid granules the staple; vary them with frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, mysis and spirulina-based food. Give two small meals a day and make sure the food reaches the bottom.

Mild among Central American cichlids; it guards the area around the eggs during breeding, but serious aggression is rare.

Good companions: firemouth, rainbow cichlid, large livebearers, medium to large barbs, plecos.

Avoid: very small fish and shrimp, large aggressive cichlids, delicate planted layouts.