
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Large cichlid with massive head hump and vivid coloring. Artificially bred variety. Bonds with owners like a pet.
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. Diet consists of high-protein foods: cichlid pellets, frozen shrimp, and krill.
The Flowerhorn Cichlid lives 8-12 years.
The Flowerhorn Cichlid grows to 20-35cm.
Water conditions of pH 6.5–7.8 at 28–30°C, combined with powerful filtration to handle heavy waste production, are necessary.
Origin
Artificially bred hybrid developed in Malaysia
Lifespan
Sources: Aquarium Source
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Primary sources
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8-12 years
Size
20-35cm
Temperature
22〜28℃
Cichlid pellets, shrimp, krill
Adults reach 20-35 cm, so keep it alone in a tank of 90 cm or more.
Slightly acidic to slightly alkaline water (pH 6.5-7.8) at 28-30°C suits it.
Very aggressive. Eats from hand
Extremely aggressive toward its own and other species, attacking everything, so community keeping is almost impossible.
Prefers high-protein food such as cichlid pellets, frozen shrimp, and earthworms. It bonds enough to eat from your hand.
Dirties water quickly — powerful filter needed
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The average lifespan of Flowerhorn Cichlid is 8-12 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Flowerhorn Cichlid typically reaches 20-35cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Flowerhorn Cichlid feeds on: Cichlid pellets, shrimp, krill. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Flowerhorn Cichlid varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 23, 2026