A man-made hybrid cichlid famous for its vibrant colors, extreme interactive personality, and the large nuchal hump (kok) on its head. They are incredibly aggressive 'wet pets' that will attack hands, tank mates, and equipment. They have a massive bioload, dig constantly, and must almost always be kept completely alone.
Flowerhorn Cichlid At a Glance
Flowerhorn Cichlid Tank Requirements
Will Flowerhorn Cichlid fit in your tank?
Care guides tell you what Flowerhorn Cichlid needs, the next question is whether your tank can safely provide it. Test Flowerhorn Cichlid against your tank size, maintenance needs, and the fish you already keep before you buy.
Useful setup supplies
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Flowerhorn Cichlid Water Parameters
Water care products
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Flowerhorn Cichlid Temperament & Compatibility
Flowerhorn Cichlid Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Male (Standard / Show)
The iconic male Flowerhorn with a massive nuchal hump (kok) and vivid coloration. Extremely aggressive. Must be kept completely solitary in a bare-bottom or sand tank with no sharp decorations to prevent injury to their hump.
Same care requirements as the base species
Also known as: Kok, Red Dragon, Kamfa, Zhen Zhu, Thai Silk
Female
Slightly smaller with a much smaller or non-existent nuchal hump. Still highly aggressive and territorial, though slightly less than males. Best kept solitary.
Differs in 3 traits from base species
Also known as: Female Flowerhorn
Juvenile (Grow-out)
Young Flowerhorns sold at a typical retail size. They grow incredibly fast and are voracious eaters. They will rapidly outgrow starter tanks and require an upgrade to a 75+ gallon setup within months.
Differs in 4 traits from base species
Also known as: Baby Flowerhorn, Fry
Flowerhorn Cichlid Care Guide Summary
The Flowerhorn Cichlid, scientifically known as Hybrid cichlid (Amphilophus cross), belongs to the Cichlids - Central American family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 30 cm and have a compressed body shape with a fast growth rate. Classified as highly aggressive, this species primarily occupies the mid-level and bottom zones of the aquarium and produces a extreme level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Flowerhorn Cichlid requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 280 litres and a tank length of at least 120 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 26°C and 30°C, with a pH range of 7.4–8 and a general hardness of 9–20 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred.
Due to its specialist needs, the Flowerhorn Cichlid is best suited for fishkeepers who can provide a carefully planned setup. This species is available in 3 varieties: Male (Standard / Show), Female, and Juvenile (Grow-out). Each may differ slightly in size, temperament, or care needs, so it is worth checking the specific requirements of the variety you plan to keep.
Flowerhorn Cichlid Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Flowerhorn Cichlid, a moderate water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the mid-level and bottom zones, the aquarium layout should prioritise open swimming space in the centre of the tank for free movement and sufficient floor space with hiding spots among rocks, wood, or dense planting. Useful additions include a sand substrate to accommodate their sifting behaviour and smooth gravel or rounded substrate to protect their sensitive barbels. Keepers should note that expect substrate disturbance, so lightweight décor should be secured and live planted layouts may be difficult to maintain, as this species tends to uproot or consume vegetation.
Flowerhorn Cichlid Compatibility Notes
Classified as highly aggressive, the Flowerhorn Cichlid is best housed alone, as they do not tolerate others of their kind in confined spaces. When choosing tankmates, any fish small enough to fit in its mouth will likely be eaten, conspecific aggression can be intense, especially in smaller tanks, and territorial behaviour may cause issues if hiding spots or floor space are limited. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the mid-level and bottom zones can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.
Flowerhorn Cichlid Recommended Tank Sizes
Standard aquarium sizes that meet the minimum volume and length requirements for Flowerhorn Cichlid.
75 Gallon Standard
90 Gallon Standard
125 Gallon Standard
150 Gallon High
180 Gallon Standard
350 Liter (120cm Deep)
Show 1 more tank size
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Frequently Asked Questions About Flowerhorn Cichlid
How big does Flowerhorn Cichlid get?
Flowerhorn Cichlid (Hybrid cichlid (Amphilophus cross)) typically reaches a maximum adult size of approximately 30 cm. They have a compressed body shape and a fast growth rate.
What tank size does Flowerhorn Cichlid need?
A minimum aquarium volume of 280 litres and a tank length of at least 120 cm are recommended for Flowerhorn Cichlid. This ensures enough swimming space and helps maintain stable water conditions.
What water parameters does Flowerhorn Cichlid need?
Flowerhorn Cichlid thrives in freshwater only conditions with a temperature range of 26–30°C, a pH between 7.4 and 8, and a general hardness of 9–20 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred.
Is Flowerhorn Cichlid peaceful or aggressive?
Flowerhorn Cichlid is classified as highly aggressive with an aggression score of 10 out of 10. Careful tankmate selection is essential to avoid conflict.
Can Flowerhorn Cichlid live with others of its kind?
No. Only one Flowerhorn Cichlid should be kept per tank. Keeping multiples in the same aquarium typically results in aggression and stress.
Does Flowerhorn Cichlid have any special tank requirements?
Yes. Flowerhorn Cichlid benefits from sand (sifters) and smooth gravel (sensitive barbels) in the aquarium. These features help replicate their natural habitat and promote overall health and well-being.
Plants That Suit Flowerhorn Cichlid
These plants pair well with Flowerhorn Cichlid based on shared water preferences, layout fit, and how likely they are to hold up in the same aquarium.
Afzel's Anubias
Anubias afzelii
Anubias Barteri
Anubias barteri
Belinda's Buce
Bucephalandra belindae
Buce Motleyana
Bucephalandra motleyana
Congo Anubias
Anubias heterophylla
Dwarf Buce
Bucephalandra pygmaea
Fish Similar to Flowerhorn Cichlid
Blood Parrot Cichlid
Hybrid cichlid (Blood Parrot)
A highly popular man-made hybrid (most commonly a cross between a Midas Cichlid and a Redhead Cichlid). They are known for their bright orange/red coloration, nuchal humps, and distinctive 'smiling' deformed mouths. Due to their mouth anatomy, they cannot bite effectively, which makes them less lethal than purebred Central American cichlids, though they retain strong territorial instincts and will aggressively 'bump' tankmates. They are messy eaters and produce a high bioload.
Red Devil Cichlid
Amphilophus labiatus
A massive, extremely aggressive Central American cichlid. Aptly named, the Red Devil is highly intelligent, interactive, and famous for 'glass-banging' at their owners. They are powerful diggers that will uproot plants and rearrange decor. Because of their sheer aggression and jaw strength, they are almost exclusively kept as 'wet pets' in solitary setups.
Midas Cichlid
Amphilophus citrinellus
A massive, powerful Central American cichlid famous for its extreme intelligence, interactive 'wet pet' behavior, and intense aggression. Often confused with the Red Devil, the Midas Cichlid is a bulky, earth-eating predator that requires a very large tank, immense filtration, and is notorious for aggressively attacking tank mates, heaters, and even its owner's hands.
Parrot Cichlid
Hoplarchus psittacus
The 'True' Parrot Cichlid is a large, stunning South American species known for its brilliant emerald green coloration and distinctive dark facial markings. It should NOT be confused with the man-made 'Blood Parrot' hybrid. Originating from blackwater rivers, it is highly sensitive to water quality and requires pristine, warm, soft, and acidic water. Due to its massive adult size, it requires a massive aquarium and will consume any fish small enough to fit in its mouth.
Frontosa
Cyphotilapia frontosa
A majestic and iconic deep-water cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, famous for its striking black and white bands and the prominent nuchal hump on its head. Despite their massive size, they are gentle giants compared to other African cichlids. However, they are highly effective piscivores and will easily consume smaller fish. They are best kept in a 'harem' colony of one male to multiple females.
Pastel Cichlid
Cribroheros alfari
A strikingly beautiful Central American cichlid known for its pastel yellow, pink, and blue iridescent coloration. It is a substrate-sifting species that loves to dig in sand. Like many Central American cichlids, it can be highly territorial and aggressive, especially during breeding. Requires robust filtration and spacious quarters.