Flowerhorn fish are popular for their bright colors, unique personalities, and that iconic head bump called a “kok.” They’re hybrid cichlids, meaning they don’t exist in the wild. People love them for their bold looks and interactive behavior — many owners say their Flowerhorn acts like a puppy.
But they do need proper care. This guide will teach you everything you need to know to keep your Flowerhorn happy and healthy — even if it’s your first time owning one.
1. Basic Facts About Flowerhorns
- Scientific name: Hybrid species (not naturally occurring)
- Size: 12–16 inches (30–40 cm)
- Life span: 10–12 years with proper care
- Temperament: Aggressive and territorial
- Tank level: Mid to bottom
2. Ideal Tank Setup
Flowerhorns need space. They grow big, and they love to move around.
Tank Size
Minimum tank size for one adult Flowerhorn is 75 gallons (284 liters). Bigger is better.
Filtration
Use a strong external filter. Flowerhorns are messy eaters and produce a lot of waste. A canister filter is best. Clean the filter regularly to avoid ammonia build-up.
Heater
They are tropical fish and need warm water. Use a reliable aquarium heater to keep the temperature stable between 80–86°F (27–30°C).
Lighting
Standard aquarium lighting is fine. Too much light can cause stress, so don’t leave the light on 24/7. Around 8–10 hours a day is ideal.
Substrate and Décor
- Use smooth gravel or sand.
- Avoid sharp decorations.
- Don’t overcrowd the tank. Flowerhorns need space.
- Live plants often get uprooted, so fake ones may be better.
3. Water Conditions
Good water quality is key. Test your water weekly and do partial water changes.
- Temperature: 80–86°F (27–30°C)
- pH level: 7.4–8.0
- Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
- Nitrate: Below 40 ppm
- Water changes: 20–30% weekly
4. Feeding Your Flowerhorn
They have big appetites but need a balanced diet.
Best Foods
- High-quality Flowerhorn pellets
- Bloodworms (frozen or freeze-dried)
- Brine shrimp
- Crickets or mealworms (as treats)
- Occasional boiled vegetables (like peas)
Feed them 2–3 times a day, giving only what they can eat in 2–3 minutes. Overfeeding causes water pollution and health issues.
5. Tank Mates: Can Flowerhorns Live With Other Fish?
In most cases, no. Flowerhorns are very territorial and aggressive. They may attack or kill other fish.
However, some large and equally aggressive fish — like Oscar fish, large Plecos, or large Parrot Cichlids — might be okay in a very big tank. Always monitor closely.
6. Common Health Issues
Like any fish, Flowerhorns can get sick. Here are some common problems:
Hole in the Head Disease (HITH)
Caused by poor water quality or a lack of vitamins. It appears as small pits around the head or eyes. Fix it by improving water, adding vitamins, and treating with Metronidazole.
Ich (White Spot Disease)
White spots on the body, fins, and gills. Caused by stress or sudden temperature drops. Treat with aquarium salt and raise the temperature slightly.
Swim Bladder Disorder
Fish floats oddly or has trouble staying upright. Often due to overfeeding or constipation. Fast the fish for a day or two, then feed peeled peas.
7. Grooming the Kok (Head Hump)
The iconic bump on a Flowerhorn’s head — called a “kok” — is a fatty tissue. It can grow larger with proper nutrition and genetics.
- Use high-protein food made for Flowerhorns
- Maintain stable warm water
- Keep the fish stress-free and active
8. Breeding Flowerhorns
Breeding Flowerhorns is tricky. Males and females often fight. You’ll need a tank divider to keep them safe.
- Use a clear divider to allow them to see each other
- If the female lays eggs and the male doesn’t attack, remove the divider
- Keep an eye out — aggression can happen fast
Most Flowerhorns sold in stores are male. If you’re interested in breeding, you’ll need to buy known pairs from a reputable breeder.
9. Do Flowerhorns Recognize Their Owners?
Yes! Many owners say their Flowerhorn greets them at the tank, follows their finger, and even begs for food. They’re smart and can bond with their humans — just don’t try to touch them. They can bite.
10. Summary of Flowerhorn Fish Care
- Keep them in a big tank — 75 gallons or more
- Maintain clean, warm water with strong filtration
- Feed high-quality pellets and protein-rich foods
- House alone unless you’re very experienced
- Watch for health problems and treat early
- Interact with them — they’re intelligent and responsive
Flowerhorns are a bold, rewarding species to keep. If you give them the space and care they need, they’ll reward you with color, personality, and maybe even a head nod when you walk in the room.