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