Can Firemouth Cichlid Live With Skunk Cleaner Shrimp?
Incompatible pH. Firemouth Cichlid needs 6.5–8.0, Skunk Cleaner Shrimp needs 8.1–8.4.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Firemouth Cichlid | Skunk Cleaner Shrimp | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 75–86°F | 75–82°F | 75–82°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 6.5–8 | 8.1–8.4 | No overlap ✗ |
| Temperament | semi-aggressive | peaceful | Monitor ⚠ |
| Max Size | 6" | 3" | Similar ✓ |
| Min Tank Size | 30 gal | 20 gal | 30 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Omnivore | Omnivore | — |
| Care Level | beginner | beginner | — |
Species Profiles
Firemouth Cichlid
Thorichthys meeki
Firemouth cichlids are one of the most beginner-friendly Central American cichlids. Named for their striking red/orange coloration on the throat and belly, they are less aggressive than most cichlids of their size. When threatened, they flare their gill covers to display their bright red throat — a bluffing display that is far more bark than bite.
Full care guide →Skunk Cleaner Shrimp
Lysmata amboinensis
Skunk cleaner shrimp are one of the most useful invertebrates in reef tanks. They operate a 'cleaning station' where fish line up to have parasites, dead skin, and debris removed from their bodies and gills. This natural cleaning service helps keep fish healthy and disease-free. They are also strikingly beautiful with their red-and-white striped body and long white antennae.
Full care guide →