Species: Flowerhorn Cichlid

• Genome: Flowerhorns are a hybrid species, created through the crossbreeding of different cichlid species. Their genome is a mix of these various species, leading to their distinct appearance and behavior.
• Evolution: Being a man-made species, Flowerhorns don't have a natural evolutionary history. They were first bred in the late 1990s in Malaysia and quickly gained popularity for their vivid colors and the prominent nuchal hump on their heads.

Summary of Flowerhorn Cichlids:

1. Origin: A hybrid species, originally bred in Malaysia.
2. Appearance: Known for their vibrant colors and the characteristic hump on their forehead. Each Flowerhorn is unique in its color pattern and hump size.
3. Behavior: They are known to be quite interactive, often recognized for their response to human presence.
4. Size: Can grow up to 12-16 inches in captivity.
5. Diet: Omnivorous, but require a diet rich in protein. They enjoy pellets, frozen shrimp, and even small pieces of meat.
6. Water Conditions: Prefer slightly alkaline water (pH 7.4-8.0) and temperatures between 80-85°F.
7. Tank Setup: Require large tanks (minimum 55 gallons) with plenty of space for swimming.
8. Aggression Level: Can be territorial and aggressive, especially towards other cichlids.
9. Lifespan: With proper care, they can live up to 10-12 years.

Habitat Requirements:

• Large Tank: At least 55 gallons for one Flowerhorn.
• Warm Water: Temperatures maintained between 80-85°F.
• Slightly Alkaline Water: pH levels between 7.4 and 8.0.
• High-Quality Diet: A mix of proteins and vitamins to maintain their color and health.
• Regular Water Changes: To keep the environment clean and healthy.

Compatible Tank Mates:

Given their aggressive nature, Flowerhorns are best kept alone. If they must be paired with other fish, choose large, equally aggressive species. However, this is generally not recommended due to their territorial behavior.