Flowerhorn Super Red Dragon - 10cm

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: No valid scientific name (commonly misattributed to Rocio octofasciata, but Flowerhorns are hybrid cichlids derived from various species such as Amphilophus, Vieja, and others)
• Common Name: Flowerhorn Super Red Dragon
• Adult Size: 12 – 16 inches (30 – 40 cm)
• Life Expectancy: 10 – 12 years
• Habitat: Not found in the wild; Flowerhorns are a captive-bred ornamental hybrid. They thrive in warm, well-filtered aquariums with open swimming space and stable conditions.

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 75 gallons (284 liters) for one adult; larger tanks are recommended for optimal health and growth
• Ideal Temperature: 78°F – 86°F (25°C – 30°C)
• pH Range: 7.4 – 8.0
• Water Hardness: Moderate to hard (8 – 20 dGH)
• Temperament: Aggressive and territorial; best kept alone or with large, equally aggressive species. Will attack smaller or passive tank mates.

Diet & Nutrition

• Omnivorous: Yes. Needs a varied diet including high-quality cichlid pellets, live or frozen foods (like krill, bloodworms, shrimp), and occasional vegetable matter. Enhancing color with specialized Flowerhorn food is common.

Appearance

• Coloration: Intense red to reddish-orange body with pearly or metallic scales. The "Super Red Dragon" strain is known for deep red coloration and heavy pearling.
• Body Shape: Stocky and muscular with a prominent nuchal hump ("kok") on the forehead, which is more pronounced in males.

Distinctive Features

• Pronounced nuchal hump (kok), a hallmark of Flowerhorns
• Vibrant coloration and metallic pearling patterns
• Highly interactive and responsive to owners—often described as having a “pet-like” personality
• Hybrid vigor: grows fast and adapts well to captive conditions
• Not suitable for community tanks due to aggression