Assorted Flowerhorn Cichlid 12cm Adult Male

Description

Overview

Flowerhorn cichlids are man-made hybrids, selectively bred from various Central American cichlid species. They are famous for their bright colours, bold markings, and distinctive nuchal hump (kok) on the forehead, which develops more prominently in males as they mature. At around 8 cm, a sub-adult male is entering its colouring-up stage and beginning to show personality and territorial behaviour. Flowerhorns are intelligent, interactive fish, often recognising and responding to their keepers.

Origin

Flowerhorns do not exist in the wild. They were first developed in Malaysia and Taiwan in the late 20th century, and are now bred worldwide in many colour and pattern variations.

Feeding

Flowerhorns are omnivorous with a heavy emphasis on protein. A varied diet ensures health, growth, and vibrant colour:

• High-quality cichlid pellets (staple diet, colour-enhancing if possible)

• Frozen or live foods (krill, bloodworms, earthworms, shrimp)

• Occasional vegetables (peas, spinach, zucchini) to aid digestion

Feed 2–3 times daily, offering only what can be consumed in a few minutes.

Tank Mates

Flowerhorns are generally best kept alone due to their aggressive and territorial nature. If kept with others, only very robust tank mates may be considered in a spacious aquarium:

• Large Plecos

• Big catfish species

• Other large, aggressive cichlids (with caution and plenty of space)

Tank mates should never be small or peaceful species, as they may be attacked.

Aggression

Highly aggressive and territorial. Male Flowerhorns will often not tolerate other fish in their space, particularly as they mature. They may attack fish larger than themselves. Keeping them solo is usually the most successful option.

Experience Level

Intermediate to advanced. They are hardy and easy to feed but require strong filtration, large tanks, and owners who can manage their aggression and water quality.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 25‚Äì30¬∞C (77‚Äì86¬∞F)

• pH: 7.4‚Äì8.0

• Hardness: 9‚Äì20 dGH

• Tank Size: Minimum 55 gallons (210L) for a single specimen; larger is better for adults

Provide a bare-bottom or sand substrate with robust filtration, as they dig and produce a lot of waste. Décor should be minimal and heavy (rocks, driftwood) to withstand their rearranging habits.