Firemouth Cichlid

The Firemouth Cichlid is a gregarious species known from slow-moving or still lowland waters of the lower and middle sections of rivers, canals, ditches, lagoons, and rocky ponds. Here the substrates are muddy or sandy and strewn with smooth rocks, submerged branches, leaf litter, and these waterways are packed with dense aquatic vegetation along the shorelines. These beautiful cichlids are a very popular choice for the home aquarium, on account of their relatively easy going nature (unless spawning), medium adult size, and their dazzling bright colours. The common name, firemouth, is derived from the bright orange-red colouration on the underside of the jaw. Males in particular flare out their gills, exposing their red throats, in a threat display designed to ward off male rivals from their territory.

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