Source: Wikimedia Commons
Flowerhorn Cichlid
IntermediateLarge cichlid with massive head hump and vivid coloring. Artificially bred variety. Bonds with owners like a pet.
Difficulty
Intermediate
Temperature
22〜28℃
Lifespan
8-12 years
Size
20-35cm
Diet
Cichlid pellets, shrimp, krill
About
The flowerhorn cichlid is an artificially created hybrid fish developed in Malaysia in the 1990s through selective crossbreeding of multiple cichlid species, primarily Amphilophus and Vieja species. Its most iconic feature is the prominent nuchal hump (kok) on the forehead — the larger and rounder, the more prized — combined with brilliant body coloration and distinctive embroidered-looking floral patterns. Adults reach 20–35 cm. Deeply significant in Asian feng shui culture as a symbol of good luck and prosperity, prized specimens command extraordinary prices. Housing requirements are demanding: a 90-cm or larger tank is required, and this highly aggressive species must be kept strictly alone — it will attack virtually any tankmate. Despite this aggression toward other fish, flowerhorns develop remarkably strong bonds with their owners, recognizing and responding to human presence, begging for food, and eating from the hand — the quintessential interactive pet fish. Water conditions of pH 6.5–7.8 at 28–30°C, combined with powerful filtration to handle heavy waste production, are necessary. Diet consists of high-protein foods: cichlid pellets, frozen shrimp, and krill.
Basic Info
Origin
Artificially bred hybrid developed in Malaysia
Lifespan
8-12 years
Size
20-35cm
Temperature
22〜28℃
Diet
Cichlid pellets, shrimp, krill
Care Guide
Tank
Care Specifications
AggressiveSolitary
Sources: Aquarium Source
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: br-choku editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Primary sources
Flowerhorn Cichlid Listings
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