Flowerhorn Cichlids in San Diego — SRD ZZ, Kamfa & Specialty Strains
Flowerhorns aren't for everyone. They're aggressive, they need their own tank, and they'll outgrow anything under 75 gallons. But if you've kept one, you already know — no other freshwater fish has this much personality. They recognize their owner. They follow you around the tank. They have a presence that most cichlids can't touch.
The Flowerhorn is a hybrid cichlid, created in Southeast Asia and bred for specific traits: a large nuchal hump (the kok), bright coloration, heavy pearling, and a body shape that looks powerful even when the fish is standing still. The major strains — ZZ, SRD, Kamfa — each have their own characteristics, and serious Flowerhorn keepers know the difference.
Pet Zone specializes in Flowerhorns. We list individual fish with photos so you can see exactly what you're getting. No mystery bags, no "you'll get something similar." You pick the fish.
SRD ZZ Flowerhorns:
Our signature line. Each fish is individually listed with its own ID number (AA25, AA24, AA23-B, etc.) and multiple photos. You see the kok, the pearling, the color, and the body before you buy. SRD ZZ Flowerhorns typically feature:
Kamfa Flowerhorns:
When available, we carry Kamfa strains — known for their more compact body shape, shorter tail, and distinctive head structure. Kamfas tend to have a different pearling pattern and head shape compared to ZZ strains.
Flowerhorn Fry:
For hobbyists who want to raise a Flowerhorn from a juvenile, we carry Flowerhorn fry when available. You're trading certainty for potential — fry are cheaper, but you don't know exactly how the kok, color, and pearling will develop. It's a gamble some keepers enjoy.
Flowerhorn Food & Supplies:
Mid-City / University Ave (Monster Fish & Koi Specialty Store):
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Mon closed | Tue–Fri 10:30am–6pm | Sat 11am–6pm | Sun 11am–4pm
Flowerhorns are at both locations, but Mid-City — as the monster fish store — tends to have the deeper selection. SRD ZZ Flowerhorns, Kamfas, and fry are typically available here.
Convoy District / Kearny Mesa (Aquascape Specialty Store):
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open 7 days a week, 10am–6pm
Convoy carries Flowerhorns too, though the selection is shared between locations. If you're coming specifically for Flowerhorns, call ahead — we can tell you what's in stock at each location.
SRD ZZ Flowerhorns ship nationwide through PetZoneSD.com. Each fish is listed individually with photos and an ID number. Shipping is overnight via FedEx/UPS with our Live Arrival Guarantee. Shipping days are generally Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Saturday shipping is available by request with a weekend surcharge.
Someone needs to be available to receive the package. Flowerhorns are hardy shippers, but they shouldn't sit in a box on a porch all day.
DOA claims must be reported within 4 hours of delivery. Take clear photos of the fish in the unopened bag, email them to help@petzonesd.com with your order number, and we'll handle it from there.
Q: What's the difference between ZZ, SRD, and Kamfa Flowerhorns?
A: ZZ (Zhen Zhu) Flowerhorns have a longer body, flowing fins, and heavy pearling. SRD (Short Red Dragon) is a ZZ variant known for intense red coloration and a compact, powerful body. Kamfa Flowerhorns have a more compact body, shorter tail, and a distinctive head structure — the kok tends to be rounder and more pronounced. Each strain has its own following among collectors.
Q: How big do Flowerhorns get?
A: Flowerhorns typically reach 10–12 inches in a home aquarium, with some exceptional individuals hitting 14+ inches. They need a minimum of 75 gallons for a single fish. A 125-gallon is better. They produce a lot of waste, so filtration needs to be serious.
Q: Can I keep a Flowerhorn with other fish?
A: It's risky. Flowerhorns are aggressive, and many keepers keep them solo. Some manage them with large, robust tankmates (big catfish, other aggressive cichlids), but have a backup plan. If the Flowerhorn decides it doesn't like a tankmate, that tankmate is in trouble.
Q: How do I develop the kok (nuchal hump)?
A: The kok is partly genetic and partly influenced by diet, water quality, and environment. High-protein foods, clean water, and the right genetics are the main factors. Max on our team can walk you through feeding strategies. Don't fall for "kok enhancer" supplements with unproven ingredients — a good pellet and clean water do more than any gimmick.
Q: Do you ship Flowerhorns?
A: Yes. SRD ZZ Flowerhorns ship nationwide with overnight shipping and a Live Arrival Guarantee. Each fish is individually listed with photos so you can see exactly what you're getting. Check PetZoneSD.com for current listings.
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