Overview

An ornamental Flowerhorn selected for its pronounced head profile. Flowerhorns have mixed cichlid ancestry and no single valid species name. Adult size varies by strain, often 25–35cm.

Behaviour

A strongly territorial display fish, best kept alone. Its current 7–9cm size is not a guide to permanent housing. Do not attempt pairing without expert experience and separate facilities.

Tank Size

Our recommended minimum is 350 litres with a 120 × 60cm base for one adult; 450 litres or more is preferable for a large specimen. Width is needed for turning comfortably.

These are adult housing recommendations; choose more space when adding tank mates. Allow for space occupied by substrate and décor when comparing aquarium capacities.

Compatibility

Solitary housing is recommended. Small fish may be eaten and other cichlids may be attacked. A tank mate is not needed for company.

Diet

Use a complete Flowerhorn or large-cichlid pellet, supplemented with appropriate frozen invertebrates. Avoid feeder fish, beef heart and excessive feeding aimed at enlarging the head.

Care

• Temperature: 26–29°C
• pH: 7.0–8.0
• General hardness: 8–20 dGH

Use powerful biological filtration and good surface agitation. Protect the heater and anchor décor firmly, leaving the centre open. Begin with 30–50% weekly water changes and adjust to nitrate readings. Check that the fish can turn and swim freely as it grows.

Add only to a fully cycled aquarium. Keep ammonia and nitrite at 0mg/l. Start with a 25–30% weekly water change using dechlorinated, temperature-matched water and adjust to test results and stocking. Rinse biological filter media in removed aquarium water rather than under the tap.

Live Animals Are Click and Collect Only. You can order online, choose click and collect, and we will hold your order for collection in store.