Profile Of a Flowerhorn Cichlid: Care Guide, Tank Mates and More

The striking and unique Flowerhorn cichlid is known for their bright colors, prominent nuchal hump, and distinctive personality. While they may not be the most traditional choice for a home aquarium, they can make a fascinating and rewarding addition to a fish tank with the right care and consideration.

In this article, we will delve into the characteristics of the Flowerhorn cichlid, as well as provide tips on tank setup, diet, and potential tank mates. Whether you are a seasoned aquarist or new to the hobby, this guide will give you the information you need to give your Flowerhorn the best possible care.

At a Glance

What is a Flowerhorn Cichlid

A Flowerhorn cichlid is a hybrid fish species developed in Southeast Asia in the 1990s. It’s created by crossing several cichlid fish, including the Red Devil, the Trimac, and the Midas cichlid. Flowerhorns are known for their bright colors, large size, and distinctive nuchal hump that forms on their heads as they mature.

They are popular aquarium fish due to their unique appearance and personalities, but they can be challenging to care for due to their size and territorial nature. Flowerhorns are omnivorous and should be fed a varied diet, including pellets, flakes, frozen, and live foods.

Is There a Way to Tell Between Male and Female Flower Horn Fish?

A few physical characteristics can help you determine the gender of a Flowerhorn cichlid. Generally, male Flowerhorns have larger and more colorful nuchal humps on their heads and longer and more pointed fins. They may also have a thicker and more elongated body shape than females. Female Flowerhorns tend to have smaller nuchal humps and shorter, rounder fins. They may also have a more plump and rounded body shape.

These physical differences can vary widely depending on the specific strain of Flowerhorn and the individual fish. In some cases, it can be challenging to determine the gender of a Flowerhorn with certainty just by looking at physical characteristics alone. The most reliable way to discern the gender of a Flowerhorn cichlid is by observing its behavior and breeding activity.

For example, male Flowerhorns are generally more territorial and aggressive and may display dominant behaviors such as chasing and nipping at other fish. They may also build nests or “dens” in the tank and try to lure females to them. Female Flowerhorns, on the other hand, are usually less aggressive and may exhibit more submissive behaviors, such as avoiding confrontation with males. When a female is ready to breed, she may also display physical changes such as swollen ovaries or a gravid spot (a dark patch on her belly).

What is in the Lump in Flower Horns?

The lump or nuchal hump that forms on the head of a Flowerhorn cichlid is made up of fatty tissue. As the fish matures, this tissue becomes more prominent and can change in size and shape. The nuchal hump is not a specific organ or body part but a characteristic unique to Flowerhorn cichlids and certain other cichlid species. Some people believe that the size and shape of the nuchal hump can be influenced by the fish’s diet and environment, although there is no scientific evidence to support this. The nuchal hump is a cosmetic feature with no known functional purpose.

Where do Flowerhorns Live?

Flowerhorn cichlids are not found in the wild and do not have a natural habitat. They are a hybrid species created by crossing several different types of cichlid fish in Southeast Asia in the 1990s. Flowerhorns are now popular aquarium fish and can be found in homes and public aquariums worldwide. They are not suited to life in natural bodies of water and should only be kept in a properly set up and maintained aquarium.

Flowerhorn cichlids can live for 10-15 years with proper care. Their lifespan can be influenced by diet, water quality, and overall health. Maintaining a healthy environment and providing a varied and nutritious diet can help ensure that your Flowerhorn cichlid lives a long and healthy life. 

When keeping a Flowerhorn cichlid here are some specific requirements you should cover:

• Tank size: Flowerhorns can grow up to 20 inches (50cm) in size, so they require a large tank with a minimum volume of at least 55 gallons (208 litres). 
• Water quality: Flowerhorns are sensitive to changes in water quality and require consistent water parameters. Test the water regularly to maintain a stable pH level of around 7.0-8.0 and a temperature of 78-82 degrees Fahrenheit. Regular water changes and a high-quality filtration system can help maintain good water quality.
• Diet: Flowerhorns are omnivorous and require a varied diet that includes plant and animal matter. A high-quality pellet or flake food should form the basis of their diet, supplemented with frozen and live foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and earthworms. As per every fish you own, it’s best to avoid overfeeding, as this can lead to health problems and excess waste in the tank.
• Tank mates: Flowerhorns can be aggressive, territorial, and generally unsuitable for a peaceful community tank. They are best kept with similar-sized, robust cichlids that can hold their own against any potential aggression.
• Tank setup: Flowerhorns require a well-decorated tank with plenty of hiding places and structures to explore and claim as a territory, so they lend themselves perfectly to the aquascaping hobby. They also benefit from adding live plants, which can provide additional oxygen and help create a more natural environment. It’s essential to provide plenty of substrate for them to dig and forage in and avoid overcrowding the tank.

Behaviour and Temperament

Flowerhorn cichlids are known for their distinctive personalities and can exhibit a wide range of behaviors. They are energetic and curious fish that enjoy exploring their environment and interacting with their owners. They can be pretty personable and may even “beg” for food or attention at the tank’s surface and this is one of the main reasons they are so sought after in the aquarium hobby.

However, Flowerhorns are also known to be aggressive and territorial, particularly towards other fish. They may chase, nip, or even attack tank mates that they perceive as a threat to their territory. This behavior is most common during the breeding season but can occur at any time. Be aware of this potential aggression and choose tank mates carefully to avoid conflicts.

In addition to their territorial behavior, Flowerhorns can also be prone to displaying dominant behaviors such as head shaking or fin nipping. These behaviors are generally not harmful, but they can be disruptive to the tank environment. Providing plenty of space, hiding places, and choosing the right tank mates can help reduce the occurrence of dominant behaviors.

Overall, Flowerhorn cichlids can make fascinating and rewarding pets with the right care and consideration. By understanding their unique behavior and temperament, you can create a harmonious and enriching environment for your fish.

Tank Mates

When choosing tank mates for a Flowerhorn cichlid, you’ll need to consider their size, temperament, and compatibility. Flowerhorns can be aggressive and are generally unsuitable for a peaceful community tank. They are best kept with similar-sized, robust cichlids that can hold their own against any potential aggression.

Some potential tank mates for a Flowerhorn cichlid include:

• Other Flowerhorns: Keeping multiple Flowerhorns together can be a good option as long as there is enough space and resources for them. Introduce any new fish gradually and monitor their interactions closely to ensure a harmonious tank environment.
• Large, robust cichlids: Flowerhorns can be kept with other large and robust cichlid species, such as Oscars, Jack Dempseys, or Green Terrors. 
• Large, non-cichlid species: Flowerhorns can also be kept with larger, non-cichlid species such as Arowanas, Pacus, or Plecos. These fish are generally less territorial and may be able to coexist peacefully with a Flowerhorn. However, monitoring their interactions closely and providing plenty of space and resources to prevent conflicts is still important.

Absolutely avoid keeping Flowerhorns with smaller fish or peaceful community tank mates, as they may be bullied or attacked. 

Lighting and Filtration

When setting up an aquarium for a Flowerhorn cichlid, lighting and filtration are two key factors to consider.

In terms of lighting, it is generally recommended to provide a moderate level of lighting for your Flowerhorn’s tank. This can be achieved using a standard aquarium hood or a separate light fixture. It’s also a good idea to provide a natural light/dark cycle for your fish, which can be achieved by turning the lights on and off consistently each day. Choosing a light such as a Chihiros WRGB with built-in automation is a good options and one that I would recommend having used this light in a couple of my aquascape setups.

As for filtration, it is essential to have a high-quality filtration system in place to help maintain good water quality and keep your Flowerhorn healthy. Several types of filtration systems are available, including power filters, canister filters, and hang-on-back filters. Choose a filtration system appropriate for the size of your tank and the needs of your fish. Regular water changes and filtration system maintenance are also crucial to maintaining a healthy aquarium environment.

Aquarium Plants for Your Flowerhorn Cichlid Tank

Many aquarium plants can be a good choice for a Flowerhorn cichlid tank. Some options to consider include the following:

• Java fern: This hardy plant is a good choice for beginners, as it is easy to care for and can tolerate a wide range of water conditions. It has long, slender leaves and can be attached to rocks or wood for a natural look.
• Anubias: Another hardy plant that is easy to care for, Anubias is a good choice for a Flowerhorn cichlid tank. It has thick, leathery leaves and can be attached to rocks or wood.
• Amazon sword: This popular plant has broad, sword-like leaves and can add a tropical touch to your tank. It is a good choice for a Flowerhorn cichlid tank, but it may require more light and a nutrient-rich substrate to thrive.
• Java moss: This low-maintenance plant is a good choice for a Flowerhorn cichlid tank, as it can tolerate a wide range of water conditions and is easy to care for. It has small, delicate leaves and can be attached to rocks or wood.

Diet and Feeding

Flowerhorn cichlids are omnivorous and require a varied diet that includes plant and animal matter. A high-quality pellet or flake food should form the basis of their diet, supplemented with frozen and live foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and earthworms. Avoid overfeeding, as this can lead to health problems and excess waste in the tank.

Health Problems and Disease

Like all aquarium pets, Flowerhorn cichlids are prone to certain health problems and diseases. Some common health issues to be aware of include the following:

• Ich: This is a common parasitic infection that causes white spots on the skin and fins of the fish. It’s often caused by poor water quality or stress and can be treated with improved water conditions, medication and my personal favorite, aquarium salt.
• Dropsy: This condition causes the fish’s abdomen to swell and its scales to protrude outward. It is often caused by internal infections or organ failure and can be difficult to treat.
• Swim bladder disorder: This is a condition that affects the fish’s ability to control its buoyancy and swim normally. It can be caused by overfeeding, constipation, or other underlying health issues and may require treatment with medication or changes to the fish’s diet.
• Skin infections: Flowerhorns are prone to bacterial and fungal skin infections, which can cause redness, swelling, and other visible symptoms. These infections are often treated with antibiotics or antifungal medication.

To help prevent health problems and disease in your Flowerhorn cichlid, maintain good water quality, provide a nutritious diet, and keep the tank clean and free of excess waste. Also, be aware of the signs of illness and seek veterinary treatment if necessary.

Breeding

Breeding Flowerhorn cichlids can be a rewarding experience, but it’s a complex process that requires a thorough understanding of the fish’s specific care requirements. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind when breeding Flowerhorns:

• Tank setup: Provide a spacious and well-decorated tank for breeding, with plenty of hiding places and structures for the fish to claim as territory. It is also a good idea to provide a separate area for the eggs and fry to develop.
• Water quality: Maintaining good water quality is crucial for the health of the breeding fish and their offspring. Test the water regularly and maintain a stable pH level of around 7.0-8.0, as well as a temperature of 78-82 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Diet: Providing a varied and nutritious diet is essential for the breeding fish’s health and their offspring’s development. A high-quality pellet or flake food should form the basis of their diet, supplemented with frozen and live foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and earthworms.
• Spawning behavior: Flowerhorns display various spawning behaviors, such as head shaking and fin nipping. Be aware of these behaviors and monitor the fish closely during the breeding process.
• Fry care: Once the eggs have hatched, provide proper care for the fry to ensure their survival and development. This can include feeding them a suitable diet, maintaining good water quality, and providing a suitable environment.

Flowerhorn Cichlid Color & Types

Flowerhorn cichlids are known for their distinctive appearance and come in various colors and patterns. There are a wide variety of types, including some incredibly beautiful color variations. I’ve listed just a few here: 

• Red Dragon: A deep red coloration on the body and fins.
• Blue Dragon: A pale to medium blue coloration on the body and fins.
• Golden Monkey: Bright yellow coloration on the body and fins.
• Green Dragon: A ale to medium green coloration on the body and fins.
• Orange Dragon: A pale to deep orange coloration on the body and fins.
• Black Diamond: Solid black or partially black coloration on the body and fins.
• Zebra Flowerhorn: Alternating black and white stripes on the body and fins.
• Leopard Flowerhorn: A spotted or marbled pattern on the body and fins.
• Calico Flowerhorn: A mix of different colors and patterns on the body and fins.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will Flowerhorn eat snails?

A Flowerhorn cichlid may eat snails, notably smaller snails. However, this will depend on the individual fish and its diet. Some Flowerhorns may be more interested in eating snails than others.

How to buy a Flowerhorn fish

When buying a Flowerhorn cichlid, do your research and choose a reputable seller. Look for a fish that is active and appears healthy, with clear eyes and no visible signs of illness. It’s also a good idea to ask the seller about the fish’s history and care requirements.

Can a Flowerhorn cichlid be kept with blood parrots?

It’s generally not recommended to keep Flowerhorn cichlids with blood parrots, as they have different care requirements and may not be compatible. Flowerhorns are larger and more aggressive fish and may bully or attack smaller or more peaceful species.

How old do Flowerhorn have to be to breed?

Flowerhorn cichlids typically reach sexual maturity at around 6-12 months of age, although this can vary depending on the individual fish. It’s essential to provide proper care and nutrition to support the development of the fish before attempting to breed them.

Can I use a mirror for a Flowerhorn?

Using a mirror as a permanent part of a Flowerhorn cichlid’s environment is generally not recommended, as it can cause unnecessary stress and aggression. Flowerhorns are territorial fish and may become agitated or aggressive when they see their reflection in a mirror.

What is the best heater for a Flowerhorn?

Select a heater that is appropriate for the tank’s size and the fish’s needs. A heater with a wattage of around 25-50 watts per gallon of water is generally a good choice for a Flowerhorn tank. It is also essential to use a reliable, high-quality heater and to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation and use. I always have a backup heater in case the one I’m using stops working.

What to feed 4-week-old Flowerhorn fry

Provide a diet rich in protein and nutrients. Some options include live or frozen baby brine shrimp, finely crushed flakes or pellets mixed with water to create a slurry and live daphnia. Feed the fry small amounts several times a day, only offering as much food as they can consume in a few minutes. Avoid overfeeding, as this can lead to excess waste in the tank and health problems for the fry.

Keeping a Flowerhorn cichlid can be a gratifying experience for aquarium enthusiasts. These striking fish are known for their distinctive appearance and playful behavior, and they can be a lot of fun to keep and observe. Caring for a Flowerhorn can also be a creative outlet, as you will have the opportunity to design and maintain a large tank to suit their needs. Aquascaping a spacious tank for your Flowerhorn can be a fun and fulfilling hobby, and it will allow you to showcase your design skills and create a beautiful aquatic environment for your pet. Overall, a Flowerhorn cichlid can be an excellent choice for aquarium enthusiasts looking for a unique and challenging pet with lots of personality.