Origin
Native to slow rivers, lagoons, and ponds of the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico, Belize, and northern Guatemala.

Visual & Behavioral Appeal
Recognized by their vivid red-orange throats, bluish-gray bodies, and flowing, pointed fins. Males flare gill covers to appear larger, creating dramatic visual displays during aggression or courtship.

Purpose
Ideal for cichlid community displays, territorial behavior observation, or low-aggression species tanks. Adds bold color and movement without the chaos of larger cichlids.

Importance
Strikes a balance between beauty and manageability. Often used as a “starter cichlid” for those wanting to explore territorial fish without overly aggressive species.

Included Resources
Standard heater and filtration. Sand or fine gravel substrate, with caves, roots, or rock structures for territory. Plant-safe if space is adequate.

Best Use Cases
Works in Central American biotope tanks, semi-aggressive cichlid setups, or larger community tanks with similarly tempered species.

Conservation Context
Not endangered. Widespread in its native range and bred extensively in aquaculture facilities.

Ideal Aquatic Species
• Swordtails, mollies, or platies
• Giant danios, rainbows
• Larger tetras (e.g. Buenos Aires)
• Other Thorichthys species
• Avoid shy or bottom-dwelling fish during breeding

Region (A)
• Latitude: 18.5036° N
• Longitude: -88.2967° W
(Belize River basin)

Region (B)
• Latitude: 20.6843° N
• Longitude: -88.5678° W
(Northern Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico)