There is a lot of confusion surrounding the topic of man-made flowerhorns. Some people swear that all flowerhorns are bred in captivity, while others claim that some strains of natural flowerhorn exist. So, what’s the truth? In this guide, we will take an in-depth look at man made flowerhorn and answer all of your questions!
Flowerhorn fish is a man-made hybrid that is a cross between different cichlid species. There are many different types of flowerhorns, and they come in a variety of colors and patterns.
In this article, we will discuss the different types of flowerhorns, as well as their origins and FAQs. We will also answer the question: are flowerhorns natural? Furthermore, keep reading to learn more about these fascinating freshwater fish!
Equipment List That Might Help You Choose For Flowerhorn Tank
| Types of equipment | Features | Link to amazon |
| SeaClear Acrylic Combo Aquarium |
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| Flipper Ollie & Hutch Wildwood 55 Gallon, Rustic Gray Aquarium Stand |
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| EHEIM NORTH AMERICA – JAGER HEATER 150W |
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EHEIM NORTH AMERICA – JAGER HEATER 150W |
| Marineland Penguin 350 BIO-Wheel Power Filter |
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| Penn Plax Aquarium Cascade Canister Filter |
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| Imagitarium 50-Gallon Terrarium Screen |
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| MingDak LED Aquarium Plant Light |
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| TEEMO Aquarium Groot Air Bubbler Decorations |
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| Penn-Plax Reptology Shale Step Ledge for Aquariums & Terrariums |
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Is Flowerhorn Man-Made?
Yes, all flowerhorns are man-made. Flowerhorn fish is a product of human intervention and are not found in the wild.
Flowerhorn fish is a hybrid of different cichlid species. The most common parent species used in breeding flowerhorns are:
- Red devil cichlid (Amphilophus labiatus)
- Trimac cichlid (Astatotilapia trimaculata)
- Midas cichlid (Amphilophus citrinellus)
- Red Texas cichlid (Herichthys cyanoguttatus)
- Floridan parrot cichlid (Hoplarchus Psittacus)
Flowerhorns were first bred in Thailand in the early 1990s. Thai breeders used these different cichlid species to create a new, more aggressive, and colorful fish.
Flowerhorns quickly became popular in Southeast Asia and were eventually exported to other parts of the world. Today, flowerhorns are kept as pets in many different countries!
Which Flowerhorns Are Man-Made?
All flowerhorns are man-made. There are many different strains of flowerhorn, but they all share the same origins. These cichlids are a mix of different cichlids out there. And, all the flowerhorn types look magnificent with a unique portrayal of their outlook.
The most popular strains of flowerhorn are:
Red Dragon Flowerhorns
Red dragon flowerhorns are one of the most popular strains of flowerhorn. They are characterized by their bright red coloration and long, flowing fins.
These flowerhorns are also called Zhen Zhu. Zhen Zhu is the Chinese name for pearl, which is fitting because these fish are often bred for their pearls!
Red dragon flowerhorns are a cross between a red texas cichlid and a trimac cichlid.
With their deep, bright colors and sparkling pearls all over the body, these fish are known for magnificent displays.
Golden Base Faders
Golden base faders are another popular strain of flowerhorn. They are characterized by their bright yellow coloration and long fins.
Red is a beautiful color, and it’s everywhere in Texas! There are different shades of red depending on where you go.
Unfaded: lowest grade or type that can be found here;
Yellow: Second Lowest Grading Of Red,
Orange: the majority of red Texas fall into this category.
Coral: pinkish but not quite full red.
Red: It is the most desirable color.
Kamfa
Kamfa flowerhorns are one of the most sought-after strains of flowerhorn. They are characterized by their bright colors and unique patterns.
The unique Kamfamalau is a cross between the popular male and female flowers from each strain.
The body shape resembles that of an average kamfa, but with more prominent features like sunken eyes caused by their genes! Frosted pearls are also common in this variety which you can see across most parts if its head bumps.
Indomalau
Indomalau flowerhorns are a cross between an Indo tiger and a Malau flowerhorn. They are characterized by their bright colors and long fins.
These fish are relatively new to the scene but have quickly become popular due to their unique coloration.
Tan King
Tan king flowerhorns are a cross between a red dragon and a kamfa flowerhorn.
Furthermore, their vibrant colors and patterns attract many aquarists to keep in their tank. Tan kings are one of the most popular types of flowerhorns.
Flowerhorn Facts
Flowerhorns are man-made fish that was created in Asia. Flowerhorns werea product of crossing between different species of cichlids.
- Flowerhorn fish are known for their vibrant colors and patterns. Thir large size attracts a lot of fishkeepers. Flowerhorns can grow to be up to 24 inches long!
- Flowerhorn is hybrid fish. It cannot be found in the wild.
- Lifespan: Up to 12 years.
- Size: Up to 24 inches (61 cm)
- Diet: Omnivore
- Origin: Asia
- Family: Cichlidae
Where Do Flowerhorn Fish Come From?
Flowerhorn fish come from Asia. Most of the breeders are located in Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore. The first flowerhorns were bred in Thailand and they were called “Kamfa”. Kamfa is a combination of two words: “Kam” which means gold, and “fa” which means flower.
The breeders took the best-looking flowers from their stock and crossed them to create the perfect fish. They used genetic engineering to make the fish look more like a flower.
The breeders also used color enhancers to make the fish more colorful. The most popular color enhancer is the “Red Dragon”. Red Dragon makes the fish’s colors brighter and more vibrant.
Flowerhorns are also popular in other countries, such as Indonesia, China, and Taiwan. In Indonesia, the most popular type of flowerhorn is called “Indomalau”. In China, the most popular type of flowerhorn is called the “Tan King”.
Flowerhorns are also mostly popular in the United States, but they are not as popular as they are in Asia.
There are many different types of flowerhorns, but the most popular type is the Kamfa. Kamfas are the most expensive and the most sought-after type of flowerhorn.
These fish are very friendly and outgoing. Moreover, they are also very intelligent and easy to train.
Furthermore, many aquarists breed flowerhorn not only for their looks, but also for their personalities. This is what makes them so special and unique.
Flowerhorns are truly one-of-a-kind fish, and they are sure to bring a smile to your face.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Flowerhorn Natural?
No, flowerhorns are not a naturally occurring species. They are man-made fish that was created by crossing different species of cichlids.
Breeding flowerhorn is difficult and thus, it is also susceptible to various diseases on its own. However, you will get a beautiful addition to your tank with the flowerhorn.
How Is a Flowerhorn Fish Made?
You can make a flowerhorn fish by crossbreeding different species of cichlids.
The most common species of flowerhorn are the red dragon, golden base fader, kamfa, and indomalau. You have to take care of the genetics. Get a flowerhorn from an experienced aquarium store.
Is a Flowerhorn a Hybrid?
Yes, a flowerhorn is a hybrid of different species of cichlids. Majorly. flowerhorns were first a product of breeding between two different fishes specifically cichlids.
It is hard to say which ones the cichlids are. You can find different types of hybrids that are a result of breeding between different cichlids.
What Species Make a Flowerhorn?
The common species that make a flowerhorn are blood parrot cichlid and red blood cichlid. You can also find various other combinations within the type of flowerhorns as well.
Like the malau and kamfa cichlids come together to make a different species, indomalau. Similarly, breeding a flowerhorn at home is quite a task. You might be able to breed it but the product can be dissatisfying as the genetics of the flowerhorn might react to become faulty.
In such a case, they get a weaker immune system and have health issues later in life. As a result, the lifespan is much shorter than what you would expect normally.
Conclusion
Flowerhorn is man-made fish that was created in Asia by crossing different species of cichlids. Moreover, the most common species you can find in man-made flowerhorn are the red dragon, golden base fader, kamfa, and indomalau. Flowerhorns are popular for their vibrant colors and patterns. If you are looking for a unique fish to add to your aquarium, then a flowerhorn might be the right choice for you!
Flowerhorns come from Asia with most breeders located in Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore. If you have any questions about flowerhorns, feel free to ask in the comments below and I will do my best to answer them! Thanks for reading!
Do you own a flowerhorn? Let us know in the comments below!
