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.
At a Glance
Tank Requirements
Water Parameters
Temperament & Compatibility
Available 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 Summary
The Flowerhorn Cichlid, scientifically known as Cichlasoma sp. hybrid, 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. To replicate their natural habitat, the tank should include sand (sifters) and smooth gravel (sensitive barbels).
Only one Flowerhorn Cichlid should be kept per aquarium. Keepers should be aware that this species will prey on fish small enough to fit in its mouth, can be aggressive toward its own kind, will defend a territory within the tank, and may uproot or eat live plants. 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.
Similar Species
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Hemichromis bimaculatus
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Texas Cichlid
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Firemouth Cichlid
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A popular Central American cichlid famous for the bright red coloration on its throat and belly, which it flares to intimidate rivals. They are earth-eaters, constantly sifting sand for food. While territorial, especially during breeding, they are relatively peaceful for a cichlid of their size compared to larger Central American counterparts.
Freshwater Angelfish
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Jack Dempsey
Rocio octofasciata
A robust, highly territorial Central American cichlid named after the aggressive 1920s boxer, William 'Jack' Dempsey. They exhibit beautiful iridescent blue, green, and gold spangling over a dark background. As aggressive diggers and plant destroyers, they require a tank with sturdy decor. They are best kept as a single wet pet or in a large tank with other similarly sized, robust Central American cichlids.
Guppy
Poecilia reticulata
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