What size tank do firemouth cichlids need?
At least 40 gallons (150 liters) for a pair. The smallest standard tank that works is the 37 gallon. A bigger tank is always easier to keep stable. We give the size for an adult fish in a pair, because the small fish in the shop will grow. Scientific name: Thorichthys meeki.
How many firemouth cichlids in each tank size?
This is how many each standard tank carries comfortably if firemouth cichlids are the only fish in it. Share the tank with other species and the number goes down.
| Tank | How many firemouth cichlids |
|---|---|
| 5 gallon | Too small |
| 10 gallon | Too small |
| 20 gallon long | Too small |
| 29 gallon | Too small |
| 40 gallon breeder | 2 |
| 55 gallon | 2 |
| 75 gallon | 2 |
| 125 gallon | up to 6 |
Check firemouth cichlids against your own tank and other fish
Good to know
- Best kept as a pair. A pair will claim a patch of the tank floor and defend it, most of all when they have eggs.
Tank mates for firemouth cichlids
These animals like the same water, are a safe size, and have a temper that fits. It is a match on paper: always watch new tankmates for the first week.
Poor matches
- Neon tetra: Firemouth cichlid (about 6 in) can eat neon tetra (about 1.4 in).
- Fancy goldfish: Goldfish do best with other fancy goldfish.
- Oscar: Oscar is aggressive and much bigger. Firemouth cichlid would be bullied.
Questions and answers
What size tank do firemouth cichlids need?
At least 40 gallons (150 liters) for a pair. The smallest standard tank that works is the 37 gallon. A bigger tank is always easier to keep stable.
How many firemouth cichlids should be kept together?
At least 2. Firemouth cichlids are social animals and only behave naturally in a group. More is better if the tank has room.
Can firemouth cichlids live in a 10 gallon tank?
No. Firemouth cichlid needs at least 40 gallons (150 liters), and grows to 6 in (15 cm), far too long for a 20 inch tank.
What temperature do firemouth cichlids need?
73–81 °F (23–27 °C), with a pH of 6.5–8. In most homes that means a heater.
Can firemouth cichlids live with a betta?
Usually, yes, in a tank of 40 gallons (150 liters) or more. They like the same water: 75–81 °F (24–27 °C). Every betta has its own temper, so watch closely for the first week and have a spare tank ready.
More fish
Adult size, tank size and water ranges follow the mainstream care consensus (Seriously Fish species profiles and FishBase maximum lengths). Where sources differ we use the more cautious figure. Stocking numbers come from our stocking calculator.