Super Red Dragon Flowerhorn

Introduction

The Super Red Dragon Flowerhorn is a striking and highly sought-after hybrid cichlid, known for its vibrant red coloration, prominent nuchal hump (kok), and unique patterns. This fish is a symbol of prosperity and good fortune in some cultures, making it a favorite among aquarium enthusiasts. Flowerhorns are intelligent and interactive, often recognizing their owners and displaying playful behavior.

Scientific Name

Hybrid Cichlid (Flowerhorn)

Common Name

Super Red Dragon Flowerhorn

Water Quality and Temperature

• Temperature: Maintain a range of 78°F to 86°F (26°C to 30°C) to support optimal health and coloration.
• pH Level: Ideal pH between 7.4 and 8.0 to mimic their preferred alkaline water conditions.
• Ammonia & Nitrite: Should always be at 0 ppm, as Flowerhorns are sensitive to poor water quality.
• Nitrate: Keep below 20 ppm to prevent stress and health issues.
• Filtration: A powerful filtration system is necessary due to their high waste production. Regular water changes (30–50% weekly) are recommended.

Feeding

• Diet Type: Carnivorous
• Pellets: High-quality sinking goldfish pellets rich in protein and color-enhancing ingredients.
• Live or Frozen Foods:
• bloodworms, brine shrimp, and krill can enhance their growth and coloration.
• Vegetables: Occasionally offer blanched vegetables like spinach or peas for digestion support.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed 2 to 3 times daily in small portions to prevent overfeeding and bloating.

Tank Mates

• Best as a Solo Fish: Flowerhorns are territorial and aggressive, making them best kept alone.
• Potential Tank Mates: If keeping with other fish, consider large, robust cichlids like Oscars or Jack Dempseys, but always monitor aggression.
• Avoid: Small, timid, or slow-moving fish, as they may be attacked.

Substrates and Tank Decorations

• Substrate: Fine sand or bare-bottom tanks are preferred for easy maintenance.
• Decorations: Minimal decorations with strong, smooth rocks and driftwood. Avoid sharp objects that may injure them.
• Tank Size: A minimum of 75 gallons is recommended for a single Flowerhorn, with larger tanks preferred for more space.

Sexing

• Male vs. Female: Males generally develop a larger nuchal hump and have more vivid coloration. Females are smaller and may have a rounder body shape.

Breeding

• Spawning Behavior: Flowerhorn breeding can be challenging due to aggression.
• Breeding Pair: If breeding, a divider is often used initially to gauge compatibility before allowing direct interaction.
• Egg Care: The female lays eggs on a flat surface, and both parents may guard the eggs, though aggression between them can occur.

Maximum Size and Longevity

• Size: Can grow up to 12 to 16 inches (30 to 40 cm).
• Lifespan: With proper care, they can live 10 to 12 years.

General Information

The Super Red Dragon Flowerhorn is a highly intelligent and interactive fish, often responding to its owner’s presence. Due to their aggressive nature, they require large tanks and a committed owner willing to provide consistent care. They are bred for their intense red coloration and impressive head growth, making them a centerpiece fish in any aquarium.

A Fun Fact

Flowerhorns can recognize their owners and even be trained to follow fingers or respond to feeding cues, making them one of the most interactive aquarium fish!