Flowerhorn Cichlid

• ExerciseHigh

  A busy, energetic swimmer — keep plenty of open swimming room.

• GroomingDemanding tank care

  Demands pristine water — frequent testing and meticulous upkeep.

• Living spaceMid-size tank

  Needs a mid-size aquarium with room to swim.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment8–12 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Ich (white spot) · Fin rot · Swim bladder disorder

The Flowerhorn is a hybrid rather than a species, developed in Malaysia and Taiwan from the 1990s onwards by crossing Central American cichlids including the trimac, red devil and others, and reaching about 25 to 30 cm. It was bred for the large nuchal hump, the kok, and for pearl spangling and dark flank markings; strains such as Kamfa and Zhen Zhu differ in body shape and hump form. Two facts belong on the label: the hump is a bred trait rather than a health indicator, and released flowerhorns have established themselves as invasive fish in warm regions, so one must never be put into a pond, stream or storm drain. An adult needs 350 litres or more at 26-30C, pH 6.5 to 7.8, with powerful filtration and no delicate decor. Feed a quality cichlid pellet with frozen krill and shrimp, and skip hormone-loaded colour foods. It is intelligent, interactive and often deeply attached to its keeper, following hands and taking food from fingers. It is also strongly aggressive and is normally kept as a single fish, sometimes with a divider if a second is present. Buy one on the understanding that it is a solitary, decade-long companion.

• How active is a Flowerhorn Cichlid?

  High. A busy, energetic swimmer — keep plenty of open swimming room.

• How much maintenance does a Flowerhorn Cichlid need?

  Demanding tank care. Demands pristine water — frequent testing and meticulous upkeep.

• What tank size does a Flowerhorn Cichlid need?

  Mid-size tank. Needs a mid-size aquarium with room to swim.

• Is a Flowerhorn Cichlid a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Flowerhorn Cichlid live?

  8–12 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Flowerhorn Cichlid?

  Keep an eye out for Ich (white spot), Fin rot, Swim bladder disorder. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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