Flowerhorn Cichlid
Cichlidae sp.
Flowerhorn Cichlid (Cichlidae sp.) — Advanced care, Aggressive, under Cichlid. Minimum tank in the app: 90 US gal min; aim for 77–88°F and pH 6.5–8.5. The Flowerhorn Cichlid is ideal for experienced aquarists seeking a dynamic focal species with striking appearance and personality.

Captive lifespan reflects typical experience in a home aquarium, not maximum recorded age; genetics, sourcing, and care vary.
Natural distribution
Africa / South America (varies)
- Africa
- South America
Regional colours match the stocking calculator’s origin map.
Flowerhorn Cichlid Tank Setup
A spacious tank of at least 340 liters is critical, with both open swimming areas and strategically placed cover to reduce aggressive encounters. Use a sandy substrate to mimic natural environments, and ensure good water flow to keep the fish active. Lighting should be moderate; too much brightness can stress them further.
What Do Flowerhorn Cichlids Eat?
Flowerhorns have a moderate feeding speed but can display competitive behavior if multiple fish are present. They thrive on a varied diet for optimal health and color enhancement, but care must be taken to ensure that they receive sufficient nutrients without the risk of overfeeding, which can lead to water quality issues.
Flowerhorn Cichlid Tank Mates
Ideal tankmates include robust, similarly sized cichlids that can hold their own; however, avoid long-finned or smaller species, as they may become targets. Intraspecies aggression is common, so keeping only one Flowerhorn per tank is advisable to prevent conflicts.
Are Flowerhorn Cichlids Good for Beginners?
This sits in the advanced range in the app. Strong filtration, stable chemistry, and reading up before purchase matter more than a catchy shop name. Aquarists often underestimate the space and environmental complexity required for Flowerhorns, leading to stress and aggression. Failing to provide adequate filtration can also result in poor water quality, exacerbating aggression and health issues.
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