Ellioti Cichlid (3”)

Scientific Name:

Thorichthys ellioti

Maximum Size and Lifespan:

• Size: Up to 6 inches (15 cm)

• Lifespan: Typically 8–10 years with proper care

Recommended Aquarium Size:

• Minimum Tank Size:

  • Single adult or pair: 30-40 gallons 

• Provide ample horizontal space for swimming and territory

Water Changes and General Care:

• Water Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)

• pH: 6.8–8.0

• Water Changes:

  • 20–30% weekly to maintain excellent water quality

• Filtration: Strong biological and mechanical filtration is essential

• Substrate: Sand or fine gravel, as they like to sift and dig

Tank Setup & Decor:

• Include rockwork, caves, driftwood, and plants (sturdier species or potted plants)

• Create visual barriers to reduce aggression

• Open swimming areas are appreciated

Tankmates:

• Compatible with:

  • Peaceful to moderately aggressive Central/South American cichlids, Corydoras, medium to large Plecos, Larger tetras or rainbowfish, clown loaches

• Avoid:

  • Very aggressive species (e.g., Amphilophus, Parachromis)

  • Small, delicate fish (may be harassed)

  • Fin-nippers or overly active fish

Diet:

• Omnivorous:

  • High-quality cichlid pellets. Xtreme Big Fella, Northfin Cichlid Formula, Xtreme Nice Pellets

  • Supplement with frozen: bloodworms(1-2 Times per week max), Krill
    

• Feed 1–2 times daily, only what they can eat in a few minutes. Fast 1 day per week to avoid bloating.

Breeding:

• Reproductive Strategy: Substrate spawners

• Sexing:

  • Males are often more colorful and slightly larger

  • Females may have rounder abdomens

• Spawning Conditions:

  • Increase temperature slightly (to 80–82°F / 27–28°C)

  • Pair forms a bond and chooses a flat rock or cave

  • Eggs hatch in ~3 days; fry become free-swimming in 5–7 days

  • Parental care is strong – both male and female defend the brood

• Fry Care:

  • Feed with live baby brine shrimp or powdered fry food

Overview Before Natural Environment:

• Thorichthys ellioti is native to rivers and lakes of southeastern Mexico, particularly in slow-moving waters of the Papaloapan River basin

• Found in warm, oxygen-rich environments with sandy or silty bottoms, often among submerged roots, leaf litter, and rocks

• Water in these areas can range from slightly acidic to moderately alkaline

Summary:

Ellioti cichlids are vibrant, hardy, and intelligent Central American cichlids that make great additions to a semi-aggressive or species-focused tank. With proper tank size, stable water parameters, and thoughtful tankmate selection, they thrive in captivity. Their breeding behavior and coloration make them especially appealing for aquarists interested in observing complex social and parental behaviors.