Blue Flash Cichlid (Thorichthys aureus) Care Guide
Thorichthys aureus is a small firemouth relative from the Atlantic slope of Central America, known for iridescent blue flank coloration.
Overview
Thorichthys aureus is a small Central American cichlid in the firemouth genus, recognised by iridescent blue coloration along the flanks. FishBase records a maximum standard length of about 15 cm.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Thorichthys
- Scientific name: Thorichthys aureus
Habitat
The species occurs on the Atlantic slope of Central America, from Belize (Golden Creek) through the Motagua River basin in Honduras. FishBase describes it as a benthopelagic freshwater fish of warm lakes and lagoons, preferring the lower and middle sections of rivers, at temperatures of 24-28 °C with hardness around 2-15 dH.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 200 L
- Temperature: 24-28 °C (75-82 °F)
- pH: 7.0-8.0
- GH: 8-18 °dGH
- Lifespan: 6-10 years
Diet
The record classifies it as an omnivore (FishBase trophic level about 3.3, estimated from close relatives). In the aquarium it accepts a varied diet of live, frozen and prepared foods.
Compatibility
It is a semi-aggressive cichlid that can be kept with robust community species in a planted tank. Very small tetras and overly aggressive cichlids are best avoided.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Data Deficient (assessed 2018).