The Spot Cheek Cichlid (Thorichthys ellioti) is a beautiful, moderately sized cichlid native to rivers and lagoons in Mexico and Central America. Known for its vibrant metallic blues, reds, and golds, and its signature iridescent cheek spot, this species offers both stunning coloration and peaceful temperament. Often compared to its close relative, the Firemouth Cichlid (Thorichthys meeki), the Ellioti is more docile and exhibits even more brilliant hues—making it ideal for community setups or planted aquariums.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| 📛 Common Name | Spot Cheek Cichlid |
| 🔬 Scientific Name | Thorichthys ellioti |
| 🌍 Origin | Central America (Mexico, Honduras) |
| 🎨 Appearance | Bright blue and red scales with metallic cheek spot |
| 📏 Max Size | 5–6 inches (12–15 cm) |
| 😇 Temperament | Peaceful to mildly territorial |
| 🏠 Tank Size | 40+ gallons |
| ⚗️ pH Range | 7.0–8.0 |
| 🌡️ Temperature | 75–82°F (24–28°C) |
| 🍽️ Diet | Omnivorous – pellets, flakes, frozen foods |
| 🎯 Ideal For | Community tanks, semi-aggressive setups |
At Jason’s Plecos & Cichlids LLC, we use and recommend premium fish foods designed to boost color, vitality, and immune health:
✨ By purchasing through our links, you help support our mission to provide top-quality fish care and responsibly bred species for aquarium enthusiasts.
The Spot Cheek Cichlid (Thorichthys ellioti) brings peaceful energy and radiant color to any aquarium. With its shimmering metallic cheeks, calm disposition, and engaging behavior, it’s a perfect choice for hobbyists who love beauty without aggression.