Quick Stats
| Adult Size | 30–41 cm |
| Minimum Tank | 75 gal |
| Temperature | 26–30°C |
| pH Range | 7.0–8.0 |
| Hardness (GH) | 10–20 dGH |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Temperament | Highly aggressive |
| Diet | Carnivore — large pellets, frozen krill, prawns, earthworms |
| Schooling | Keep alone — too aggressive for tankmates |
Tank Setup
The Flowerhorn Cichlid (Hybrid (Cichlasoma sp.)) requires a minimum tank size of 75 gal. For a species this size, a larger tank is always better — more water volume means more stable parameters and a healthier environment.
Water parameters should be maintained within the following ranges: temperature 26–30°C, pH 7.0–8.0, and hardness 10–20 dGH. These are relatively tolerant fish that adapt to a range of conditions.
Provide appropriate hiding places, a suitable substrate, and open swimming space to match the natural behaviour of this species.
Tank Mates
Flowerhorn Cichlid are highly aggressive fish. Choose tankmates carefully — they may not be suitable for all community setups.
Compatible tank mates include: Keep alone only. Always ensure all species share similar water parameter requirements before mixing.
Schooling requirements: Keep alone — too aggressive for tankmates.
Diet & Feeding
Flowerhorn Cichlid are Carnivore. Their diet should reflect their natural feeding habits.
Carnivore — large pellets, frozen krill, prawns, earthworms
Feed small amounts 1–2 times daily. Only provide what the fish can consume within 2–3 minutes to prevent overfeeding and water quality issues. Supplement with live or frozen foods for optimal health and colour.
Common Health Issues
Like all aquarium fish, Flowerhorn Cichlid can be susceptible to common diseases including ich (white spot disease), fin rot, and bacterial infections. This species is generally hardy and disease-resistant when kept in good conditions.
Prevention is always better than treatment. Maintain stable water parameters, avoid overfeeding, quarantine new fish before adding them to the main tank, and perform regular water changes. A regular maintenance routine will prevent most health issues.
If disease does occur, isolate affected fish in a quarantine tank and treat appropriately. Always research medication compatibility before use — some treatments are toxic to invertebrates and scaleless fish.
Breeding
Breeding Flowerhorn Cichlid is possible in the home aquarium.
Provide appropriate breeding conditions — planted areas with fine-leaved plants. Condition breeding pairs with high-quality foods before attempting to spawn them.
Many Flowerhorn Cichlid will breed readily without intervention. Be prepared to remove eggs or fry if you want to raise them — adult fish may eat their own young.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size tank does a Flowerhorn Cichlid need?
A Flowerhorn Cichlid needs a minimum tank size of 75 gal. However, larger is always better — more water volume means more stable water parameters and healthier fish.
Are Flowerhorn Cichlid easy to keep?
Flowerhorn Cichlid are rated as Easy difficulty. Beginners can keep them successfully with proper research and a cycled tank.
What do Flowerhorn Cichlid eat?
Flowerhorn Cichlid are Carnivore. Feed a varied diet including large pellets, frozen krill, prawns, earthworms.
Can Flowerhorn Cichlid live with other fish?
Flowerhorn Cichlid are highly aggressive. Compatible tankmates include: Keep alone only. Always research compatibility before mixing species.