Red Monkey Kamfa Flowerhorn Cichlid (Vieja sp)

Red Monkey Kamfa Flowerhorn Cichlid — Vieja sp.

Explosive red. Massive kok. Pure attitude.

The Red Monkey Kamfa Flowerhorn is a high-impact hybrid cichlid bred for color, structure, and presence. A deep crimson to fire-red base covers the body, often paired with pearling or metallic spotting across the flanks and fins. The defining feature is the pronounced nuchal hump (kok), which can grow impressively large in dominant males, giving the fish its signature “monster head” look.

The Kamfa line is known for thicker body shape, short square tails, strong facial structure, and intense eye color. Combined with the Red Monkey coloration, this strain delivers both bulk and brightness. Flowerhorns are highly interactive and intelligent, often recognizing their owners and reacting to movement outside the tank.

Growing to 12–16 inches, this is a bold centerpiece fish best suited for experienced keepers who understand territorial cichlid behavior.

Aquarium Setup

• Minimum Tank Size: 125–150 gallons (180+ gallons preferred for larger males)

• Substrate: Bare bottom or fine gravel

• Flow: Moderate

• Décor: Minimal décor; strong open swimming space

• Lighting: Moderate (enhances red coloration and pearling)

• Filtration: Strong biological filtration required

Tank Mates

Best kept alone.

In extremely large systems, some experienced keepers attempt tank mates such as:

• Large armored catfish

• Very robust Central American cichlids

However, aggression is unpredictable, and solo housing is recommended.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 78–86°F (26–30°C)

• pH: 7.0–8.0

• Hardness: Moderate to moderately hard

• Water Quality: Clean and stable conditions essential

Diet

Omnivorous with high protein needs:

• High-quality flowerhorn pellets

• Shrimp and prawn

• Bloodworms

• Occasional vegetable matter