Description
Flowerhorn Cichlid – Dark Star
Overview:
The Dark Star Flowerhorn is a rare and striking strain of Flowerhorn, recognized for its deep black or charcoal base coloration, often contrasted with iridescent pearling or red highlights. This variety has an almost cosmic look, which is how it earned the “Dark Star” name. Highly collectible, it is prized among hobbyists who want something dramatic and bold in their tanks.
Origin:
A selectively bred strain from Kamfa and Zhen Zhu lineages, developed in Southeast Asia to emphasize dark pigmentation and pearling while retaining the signature nuchal hump (kok).
Feeding:
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Staple: High-quality Flowerhorn pellets (growth, kok, and color formulas).
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Supplements: Frozen krill, shrimp, and protein-rich live foods for kok and body mass.
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Enhancers: Spirulina or astaxanthin-based foods to bring out red or blue undertones.
Tank Mates:
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Best kept alone, as aggression is high to extreme.
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If housed with others, require very large tanks with dividers.
Aggression:
Extremely aggressive and territorial. Dark Star Flowerhorns are alpha fish, dominating their environment.
Experience Level:
Advanced. Suited for keepers who have handled large, aggressive cichlids.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 78–84°F (25–29°C)
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pH: 7.4–8.0
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Hardness: 8–20 dGH
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Minimum Tank Size: 75+ gallons (for a single adult).
Unique Features:
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Coloration: Deep black/dark grey body with metallic pearling, sometimes accented with red or blue hues.
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Head (Kok): Large and rounded, typical of Kamfa-based strains.
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Eyes: Often red or white, depending on lineage.
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Body Shape: Strong, stocky Kamfa build with fan-shaped caudal fin.
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Rarity: Considered a specialty strain, not as common as Super Reds or Kamfa variants.
The Dark Star Flowerhorn is a show-stopping, powerful centerpiece fish, combining the mystique of dark coloration with the trademark bold personality of Flowerhorns.
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