Flower Horn SRD (1.5 - 2 Inches) | Single

The Flowerhorn SRD (Super Red Dragon) at 2-2.5 inches is a young, yet eye-catching hybrid cichlid, renowned for its vivid colors, signature nuchal hump, and engaging personality. The SRD variant, one of the most popular Flowerhorn strains, is known for its vibrant red hues and bold presence. Even at this juvenile stage, the Super Red Dragon starts to exhibit the striking characteristics that will develop further as it matures.

Appearance: At 2-2.5 inches, the Flowerhorn SRD already begins to display its brilliant red coloration, which will become more intense as it grows. The bright red base typically covers much of the face and body, with contrasting metallic blue, black, or green markings forming intricate patterns, often described as pearling. These markings are a hallmark of the Super Red Dragon strain, and as the fish matures, the patterns become more elaborate and vibrant. The nuchal hump, or kok, is just beginning to develop at this size. This signature feature will grow larger and more pronounced with age, adding to the fish’s striking appearance. The fins are slightly translucent at this stage but will become larger and more flowing as the fish matures. The combination of vivid red with shimmering patterns makes even a juvenile SRD a captivating sight.

Behavior and Temperament: Despite their small size at 2-2.5 inches, SRD Flowerhorns are already known for their bold and interactive behavior. Flowerhorns are intelligent fish that quickly learn to recognize their owners and will often follow movement outside the tank. At this young age, the SRD is still developing its assertive temperament, but signs of its territorial nature can already be observed. They are highly active swimmers and tend to explore their surroundings, especially when they are the focal point of the aquarium. While they are more curious than aggressive at this size, they will gradually develop their dominance as they grow, becoming more territorial over time.

Tank Requirements:  For a Flowerhorn SRD of 2-2.5 inches, a minimum tank size of 181-250 litres is recommended to give them enough space to swim and grow. As they mature and grow larger (up to 12-16 inches), they will need a larger tank of at least 350-454 litres to accommodate their active nature and territorial behavior. The tank should be equipped with a strong filtration system, as Flowerhorns produce a fair amount of waste and require clean, well-oxygenated water. Regular water changes are essential to maintain good water quality. The ideal water temperature for SRDs ranges from 78-84°F (25-29°C), with a pH level between 7.4 and 8.0. Decorate the tank with smooth rocks, driftwood, and sturdy decorations to give the fish space to explore and establish territory. Sand or smooth gravel is ideal for the substrate. Flowerhorns tend to be hard on plants, so if you choose to add them, go for durable or artificial plants.

Diet: At 2-2.5 inches, the Super Red Dragon requires a high-protein diet to support its rapid growth and color development. A balanced diet of high-quality cichlid pellets, specifically formulated for Flowerhorns, will enhance their vibrant red coloration and overall health. Supplement the diet with live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, krill, or small pieces of shrimp to encourage optimal growth and kok development.