El flower horn fish, recognized by its distinctive hump on the forehead, is a hybrid that belongs to the genus Cichlasoma, originally from South America. This impressive cichlid has gained great popularity, especially in Asia, where it is considered a symbol of prosperity according to the Feng ShuiThose who believe in this philosophy claim that the larger the hump on its head, the greater the good fortune it will bring to its owner. The fish is often compared to the Chinese god of longevity due to its prominent bulge, which also gives it a touch of mysticism.
Origin and evolution of the Flower Horn
El Flower Horn It is not a species that is found naturally in the rivers of South America. In fact, it is the result of crosses between species of cichlids, mainly of the genus Amphilophus and other Central American species. Its development became popular in Southeast Asia, especially in countries such as Malaysia, Thailand and Taiwan, since the 90s. Some of the best-known crosses include the Amphilophus labiatus, Amphilophus trimaculatus and the Old synspilum, among others.
Today, several varieties of the Flower Horn are recognized, each varying in coloration, hump shape and body patterns, and new hybrids have been developed in the United States and Asia, such as the Golden Base or King KamfaHowever, all these variations are grouped under the same genus. Cichlasoma, although genetically they are very similar species.
Distinctive physical characteristics
Su prominent hump o bun This is undoubtedly the most striking feature of the Flower Horn. This nuchal bump can vary in size, from small bumps to enormous protuberances that cover a large part of its head. This kok is more developed in males than in females and is one of the indicators preferred by breeders to select higher quality specimens.
El color of the Flower Horn The color of the horned fish is equally impressive. These fish exhibit a combination of reddish, orange, green, blue and silver hues that can vary depending on the variety. Additionally, they are known for having a pattern of black spots that extend along the lateral line of their body, often forming characteristic figures or blotches, hence their name 'flower horn'.
These fish, if they are in optimal health and environmental conditions, can reach 30 cm as adults. Females tend to be slightly smaller, measuring between 20 and 25 cm.
Aquarium conditions for the Flower Horn
If you want to have this fish in a Aquarius, it is important to have a large space due to its size and territorial nature. minimum recommended size For a Flower Horn it is 200 liters, although a larger aquarium, of at least 500 liters, will be ideal if you wish to keep more than one specimen.
- Water temperature: between 25 and 30 degrees Celsius.
- pH: slightly alkaline, between 7 and 8.
- Water hardness: between 5° and 16°dH.
Filtration:These fish produce a lot of waste, so it is necessary to have an efficient filtration system that keeps the water clean and well oxygenated. An adequate flow rate would be between 1000 and 1200 liters per hour.
Decorations: Avoid sharp-edged objects and roots that can damage the sensitive skin of these fish. Although they are burrowing fish, some aquarists choose not to use gravel in their tanks to make cleaning easier.
Flower Horn Feeding
El Flower Horn It's a fish omnivore, but needs special attention in its diet. You can provide it with a commercial pellet diet, designed especially for cichlids. In addition, it is recommended to supplement with live foods or frozen, such as bloodworms, brine shrimp and small shrimp. They also accept vegetables such as pieces of cooked spinach or lettuce.
A protein-rich diet is essential for proper hump development, however, overfeeding is not recommended. Adult specimens can be fed once a day, while juveniles require two to three servings a day. In addition, some specialists recommend leaving older specimens without food one or two days a week, a practice that helps improve digestion and the overall health of the fish.
Behavior and compatibility
The Flower Horn is extremely territorial and aggressive, especially during the breeding season. It is not advisable to keep it in community aquariums with smaller fish or peaceful species, as they tend to attack them. However, some aquarists have managed to successfully keep Flower Horns with species such as Hypostomus plecostomus (plecos) or Astronotus ocelllatus. (Oscar) if they are introduced from a young age.
If you want to have more than one Flower Horn in the same aquarium, it is advisable to initially separate them with a barrier so that they become familiar with each other, reducing the risk of aggression.
Reproduction of the Flower Horn
La reproduction Keeping this fish is a fascinating experience, but can be tricky due to its hybrid nature. It is recommended to place a flat object such as a rock or ceramic plate where the female can deposit her eggs. During this process, the male is responsible for protecting the area and fertilizing them.
To increase the chances of successful breeding, it is common to initially separate them and let them interact through a screen. This will allow them to become familiar with each other before putting them together. In some cases, if the male is very aggressive, you can try to fertilize the eggs through indirect methods, such as turning the plate where the eggs are so that the male fertilizes them without coming into direct contact.
After hatching, both parents usually care for the fry, although some breeders separate the juveniles to ensure their survival.
Common diseases
Despite their resistance, the Flower Horns They are also prone to disease if not kept in the right conditions. Common diseases include:
- Hexamitiasis: Also known as hole-in-the-head disease, caused by parasites. Treatment may include the administration of specific antibiotics.
- Lymphocystis: a viral disease that causes white masses to appear on the gills.
- Liposarcoma: a rarer disease that affects internal organs, causing exophthalmos and masses around the eyes.
To avoid these diseases, it is essential to maintain water quality, perform partial water changes weekly and provide a balanced diet.
The Flower Horn is a fascinating fish that brings energy and vibrant color to any aquarium. With proper care and the right environment, they will not only live for 10-12 years, but will also become the center of attention with their imposing presence and dynamic personality.