How much does a flowerhorn cichlid cost per fish? Plus methods for developing the head
The flowerhorn cichlid is a hybrid breed, and because of its beautiful body patterns and rich colors, it is sought after by many fish-keeping enthusiasts. So, how much does a flowerhorn cichlid cost per fish? What methods are there for developing the flowerhorn's head?
1. How much does a flowerhorn cichlid cost per fish?
There are many varieties of flowerhorn cichlids, and prices vary greatly by variety and size. Common varieties can generally be bought for within 400—1000 yuan. Slightly cheaper varieties include Hongyun flowerhorn, Manyin pearl, Rainbow golden flower, and Phantom golden flower, among others. More expensive varieties include Thai golden flowerhorn, Red horse flowerhorn, and De Sa flowerhorn, among others, priced above 1000 yuan, and top-quality De Sa can sell for around 2500.
2. When does the flowerhorn cichlid develop its head?
1. Fry stage
Usually at 5-6 cm, also called the fry-filling stage. The key during this period is to feed heavily to lay a good foundation for the next stage. The food is mainly bloodworms, and the temperature can be appropriately raised, to about 30-32 degrees. Raising the temperature can speed up metabolism and let the flowerhorn cichlid grow quickly.
2. Sub-adult stage
At this time the flowerhorn cichlid is usually 6-14 cm, also called the head-training stage. The food fed to the flowerhorn cichlid should be diversified and mainly nutritional, combined with stimulation methods to develop the head. The temperature is also best raised a bit to speed up metabolism. This stage is the most important, like a person's youth.
3. Adult stage
The adult stage is usually above 14 cm, also called the shaping stage. This stage is for adjusting the flowerhorn cichlid's body shape, and the temperature is best maintained between 26-28 degrees to slow metabolism. Slowing metabolism can help extend the flowerhorn cichlid's lifespan.
3. How to develop the flowerhorn cichlid's head?
1. Temperature stimulation method
When buying the fish, pay attention to learning the temperature at which the fish was originally kept. Before the fish arrives home, first adjust the water temperature to slightly 2 degrees Celsius above the original temperature, then lower it by 1 degree Celsius every two days. Do not be impatient; lower it slowly. Lowering it too quickly will cause the head to shrink. Lower it to 26 degrees Celsius, then sharply raise the temperature to 33 degrees Celsius and maintain it for about a month. As long as there are genes, you will see a surprise. Maintaining it for a month is also to stabilize the head and avoid the flowerhorn cichlid's head shrinking back. Once the head is satisfactory, the flowerhorn cichlid has also become a finished product, then slowly lower the temperature to 28 degrees Celsius. Be sure to lower it slowly to prevent head shrinkage. Long-term high temperatures after adulthood will shorten the flowerhorn cichlid's lifespan.
2. Dummy fish stimulation method
Stick a mirror on the tank wall, or place one for a while or several times a day, to stimulate the flowerhorn cichlid's fighting spirit and aggressiveness and stimulate head development. Other fish species can also be placed in the tank to let the flowerhorn cichlid attack them. Remember, it is to let the flowerhorn cichlid attack, not for the flowerhorn cichlid to be attacked. The fish species should mainly be smaller than the flowerhorn cichlid and hardy, such as parrot fish. You can also change the species regularly to give the flowerhorn cichlid a bit of novelty.
3. Environmental stimulation method
Changing the environment can also have the effect of stimulating head development. Put the fish into another tank; the new environment can also stimulate the flowerhorn cichlid's head. But remember, the water quality of the tank it is moved to should be similar to the original tank.
The above is an introduction to how much a flowerhorn cichlid costs per fish and methods for developing the flowerhorn cichlid's head. Hope it can help you!