Description
Flowerhorn Cichlid – Super Red Monkey (SRM)
Overview:
The Super Red Monkey (SRM) is one of the most iconic and sought-after Flowerhorn strains. Unlike most Flowerhorns, which are defined by pearling and kok size, the SRM is famous for its solid, uniform red body coloration that extends from the head to the tail. This clean, deep red makes it distinct from the Super Red Dragon and Super Red Magma, which display heavy pearling. The SRM is considered a “pure red masterpiece” in the Flowerhorn world.
Origin:
Originally developed in Malaysia and Thailand, SRMs were selectively bred from Red Monkey and Golden Monkey (Kamfa-type) lines, focusing on uniform red pigmentation rather than pearl patterning.
Feeding:
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Staple Diet: High-quality Flowerhorn pellets with color-enhancing carotenoids.
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Supplements: Frozen krill, bloodworms, and shrimp to intensify red hues.
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Special Note: Carotenoid-rich and spirulina-based foods are crucial to maintain the solid crimson tone.
Tank Mates:
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Best kept alone due to extreme territorial aggression.
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Possible tank mates only in very large systems with partitions.
Aggression Level:
Very High. SRMs are dominant, territorial, and best displayed solo as centerpiece fish.
Experience Level:
Advanced. Requires careful diet, strong filtration, and consistent water parameters to maintain health and vibrant coloration.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 78–84°F (25–29°C)
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pH: 7.0–8.0
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Hardness: 8–20 dGH
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Minimum Tank Size: 75–100 gallons per adult.
Unique Features:
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Coloration: Full-body solid red with minimal or no pearling, making it unique among Flowerhorns.
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Kok (Head Growth): Can develop a prominent, rounded nuchal hump (kok), but not always as exaggerated as in Dragon lines.
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Body Type: Stocky, powerful frame with a commanding presence.
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Rarity: Highly prized and often more expensive than other Flowerhorn strains due to difficulty in breeding consistent solid-red offspring.
✨ The Super Red Monkey is regarded as the “holy grail” of red Flowerhorns. Its solid crimson body makes it stand out in competitions and collections, appealing to hobbyists who value purity of color over pearling.
