Flower Horn Golden Base Monster Cock (2.5-3 Inches) | Male

The Flower Horn SRD Monster Cock at 2.5-3 inches is a juvenile cichlid renowned for its striking appearance and unique characteristics. Here’s a detailed description:

Coloration: At 2.5-3 inches, the Flower Horn SRD Monster Cock is already showcasing its vibrant and distinctive coloration. This variant is known for its intense red, orange, and sometimes gold hues. The "SRD" in its name signifies its bright red coloration, which can appear even more vivid and striking in this specific variant. The colors are bold and vivid, and will continue to intensify as the fish matures.

Body Shape: The Flower Horn SRD Monster Cock has a robust and somewhat elongated body with a notable feature: the large, pronounced nuchal hump (a fleshy bulge on the forehead). This hump, which is more prominent in males, starts to develop around this size and will become more pronounced as the fish grows. The body is generally cylindrical with a slight taper towards the tail, and the fins are well-developed, adding to its overall imposing presence.

Size: At 2.5-3 inches, the Flower Horn SRD Monster Cock is still in its juvenile stage. As it matures, it will reach a maximum size of around 12-16 inches (30-40 cm), making it a large and impressive fish.

Temperament: The Flower Horn SRD Monster Cock is known for its bold and assertive nature. Even at a young age, it can exhibit territorial and dominant behaviors. Males, in particular, can be quite aggressive and assertive, especially during breeding or when establishing territory.

Activity Level: This species is quite active and energetic. It tends to swim vigorously and interact with its environment. The Flower Horn SRD Monster Cock is also known for its curious and intelligent behavior, often exploring its tank and interacting with its surroundings.

Social Behavior: Due to its aggressive and territorial nature, the Flower Horn SRD Monster Cock is best kept with other robust fish that can tolerate its assertiveness. It is not suitable for community tanks with smaller or more passive species.

Tank Size: A tank of at least 250 litres is recommended for a single Flower Horn SRD Monster Cock. As it grows, a larger tank of 340 litres or more will be necessary to accommodate its size and territorial needs. Providing ample space is crucial to prevent stress and aggression.

Water Parameters: The Flower Horn SRD Monster Cock prefers slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH range of 6.5-7.5. The ideal temperature range is between 75-82°F (24-28°C). Maintaining stable water conditions is essential for its health and coloration.

Decor: The tank should be equipped with sturdy rocks, driftwood, and other hardscape elements to create hiding spots and territories. A sandy or fine gravel substrate is recommended. This setup helps simulate the fish’s natural habitat and allows it to establish its space.

Diet: The Flower Horn SRD Monster Cock is an omnivore with a preference for high-protein foods. It should be fed high-quality cichlid pellets or flakes, supplemented with live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and small fish. Providing a varied diet ensures healthy growth and vibrant coloration.