Flowerhorn Cichlid (Hybrid (Amphilophus × Vieja)) Care Guide

A highly prized hybrid cichlid famous for its prominent nuchal hump (kok) and vivid red, orange, and blue coloration with dark markings.

Overview

Hybrid (Amphilophus × Vieja) is a species in the family Cichlidae. A highly prized hybrid cichlid famous for its prominent nuchal hump (kok) and vivid red, orange, and blue coloration with dark markings. Extremely territorial and intelligent, often recognizing its owner. Best kept alone or with equally robust tank mates.

Taxonomy

Family: Cichlidae
Genus: Hybrid
Scientific name: Hybrid (Amphilophus × Vieja)
Other names: Hua Luo Han
Origin: Captive Bred

Habitat

The flowerhorn is a man-made hybrid cichlid derived from Central American Amphilophus and Vieja stock, with no wild population. It is selectively bred for a large nuchal hump and bold colour, and inherits the territorial, aggressive temperament of its parent species.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 300 L
Temperature: 25-30 °C
pH: 6.5-7.5
GH: 8-20 °dGH
Water flow: moderate
Adult size: 20-35 cm
Lifespan: 8-12 years
Difficulty: intermediate

Diet

Classified as omnivore. Recommended feeding frequency: 2x daily. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.

Compatibility

Temperament: aggressive
Position in tank: middle
Compatible tank mates: Oscar, Jack Dempsey, Large Pleco
Avoid with: Small Fish, Shrimp, Peaceful Community Fish

Breeding

Breeding strategy: substrate-spawner
Breeding difficulty: advanced