Super Red Dragon Flowerhorn Juvenile Cichlid

The Super Red Dragon Flowerhorn is a hybrid cichlid known for its vibrant red coloration, unique body shape, and characteristic nuchal hump ("kok") on its forehead. As juveniles, these fish already show signs of their brilliant future appearance, making them a favorite among aquarium enthusiasts who enjoy watching their fish grow and develop.

Key Features

• Current Size: Approximately 5–7 cm
• Adult Size: Grows to 25–30 cm
• Lifespan: 8–12 years with proper care
• Tank Size: Minimum 250 liters for a single adult
• Temperature Range: 27–30°C
• pH Range: 7.4–8.0
• Diet: Carnivorous

Appearance

• Coloration: Vibrant red body with pearly iridescent patterns along the scales. Juveniles may have more subdued colors that intensify as they mature.
• Body Shape: Stocky with a rounded, slightly elongated body.
• Nuchal Hump (Kok): Juveniles may have a small hump that grows larger as the fish matures, influenced by genetics and diet.

Behavior

• Territorial and aggressive; best kept in a species-only tank or with large, robust tankmates.
• Highly interactive and intelligent, often recognizing their owner and responding to stimuli outside the tank.

Tank Setup

• Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel to avoid injury.
• Decor: Large rocks, driftwood, and artificial caves for hiding spots, but leave plenty of open swimming space.
• Filtration: High-quality filtration is essential due to their high bio-load.
• Water Flow: Moderate to strong water movement.
• Lighting: Moderate lighting enhances their vibrant colors.

Feeding

• Diet: High-protein diet for optimal growth and coloration:
  • High-quality Flowerhorn pellets.
  • Live or frozen foods like bloodworms, shrimp, or mealworms.
  • Occasional treats like krill or fish fillets.
• Avoid overfeeding to prevent water quality issues and obesity.

Tankmates

• Due to their aggression, tankmates must be carefully selected:
  • Suitable: Large Plecos, Oscars, or similarly sized cichlids (if adequate space is provided).
  • Avoid: Small, delicate, or slow-moving fish.

Breeding

• Breeding is possible but challenging due to their aggressive nature.
• Use a divider during the introduction phase to prevent injuries.
• A flat surface (like a rock or tile) should be provided for spawning.
• Female lays eggs, which the male fertilizes externally.
• Parents may show varying degrees of care for the eggs and fry.

Special Considerations

• Flowerhorns are hybrids and cannot be found in the wild.
• They require stable water parameters and regular tank maintenance to prevent diseases like hole-in-the-head or bacterial infections.
• They thrive with attention and interaction, making them excellent centerpiece fish for dedicated aquarists.

Why Choose a Super Red Dragon Flowerhorn?

The Super Red Dragon Flowerhorn is a show-stopping fish that brings bold colors, personality, and an impressive presence to any aquarium. Ideal for experienced hobbyists, they are a rewarding species for those seeking an interactive and stunning aquatic pet.

If you have any questions or problems feel free to contact us!