Description
Flowerhorn Cichlid (Hybrid)
📌 Basic Info
Scientific Name: Hybrid Cichlid (various parent species including Cichlasoma, Amphilophus, Vieja)
Family: Cichlidae
Origin: Man-made hybrid (Malaysia, Taiwan, Thailand)
Size: 12 – 16 inches (30 – 40 cm)
Lifespan: 8 – 10 years
Tank Zone: Mid-water
🌊 Water Parameters
TDS: 200 – 400 ppm
pH: 7.0 – 8.0
Temperature: 26 – 30°C (79 – 86°F)
Hardness: 10 – 20 dGH
🐟 Characteristics
Known for prominent nuchal hump (kok), vibrant colors (red, orange, gold, black), and unique patterns.
Intelligent, interactive, and can recognize owners.
Aggressive and territorial; best kept alone or with very large, compatible cichlids.
Requires strong tank structure and hiding spaces due to digging and territorial behavior.
🍽️ Food
Type: Carnivorous/Omnivorous
Diet: High-quality pellets, live/frozen foods (bloodworms, krill, shrimp, small fish), occasional vegetables.
Feeding Schedule: 2–3 times daily in moderate portions; avoid overfeeding to prevent obesity and water quality issues.
🛠️ Tank Setup & Maintenance
Tank Size: Minimum 125 gallons for adult; very large tank preferred.
Filtration: Strong filtration; Flowerhorns produce high bioload.
Decor: Rocks, driftwood, large plants (securely placed); avoid small fragile décor. Open swimming space required.
Water Changes: 30% weekly; monitor ammonia and nitrite levels closely.
👥 Social Behavior
Highly aggressive and territorial; generally best kept alone.
If housed with other fish, tank mates must be large, robust, and equally aggressive.
✅ Do’s
Provide a large, secure tank with open swimming space.
Feed high-quality diet for vibrant coloration and health.
Maintain stable water conditions with regular water changes.
Observe behavior; remove injured or stressed tank mates immediately.
❌ Don’ts
Do not keep with small or passive fish; they will be attacked.
Avoid overcrowding.
Don’t use weak filtration; Flowerhorns produce heavy waste.
⭐ Quick Tips
Flowerhorn Cichlid is a stunning centerpiece fish with interactive behavior.
Requires commitment to tank size, water quality, and proper diet.
Excellent for advanced hobbyists looking for a single, showy, and intelligent fish.
