Pasion Cichlid (Thorichthys pasionis) Care Guide
Thorichthys pasionis is a small firemouth relative from the Usumacinta drainage of Mexico and Guatemala, with a metallic iridescent body.
Overview
Thorichthys pasionis is a small Central American cichlid related to the firemouth, with a metallic, iridescent body. FishBase records a maximum standard length of about 17 cm. It is less commonly traded than some other Thorichthys.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Thorichthys
- Scientific name: Thorichthys pasionis
Habitat
The species occurs on the Atlantic slope of Central America in the Usumacinta River drainage of Mexico and Guatemala. FishBase describes it as a benthopelagic freshwater fish of rivers and lakes with softer bottoms, at temperatures of 26-30 °C, pH 8.0-9.0 and hardness 5 dH or higher.
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
It is an omnivorous, benthic feeder (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: Least Concern (assessed 2018).