How fast do the big fish grow?

[ral]

Was looking at the Blue Dolphins and Flower Horns and was pretty impressed by these fish. Was thinking it may be nice to try to raise a small fish (1"-2") or fry. I know they are going to get really large and need a 50 gallon tank at least.

New to fish. I was wondering if I get a fry, how long before he grows? I guess I was thinking of getting a small tank first and a larger one later?

I sae some that were 2-3" inches large while the fry looked pretty small, and than I saw the older ones which were really large.

Am trying to figure out how fast they grow (and basically how fast I need to upgrade tanks). Only plan to keep two fish by the way.

 

[kev_kb]

A quick Google says Flower Horn Fish need 120 gallons, see here:

http/www.aquariumfish.net/catalog_pages/...r_horn_fish.htm

I've not kept Cichlids, but I don't think they make good beginner fish really. Much better to get some experience of something smaller and easier to keep first IMO.

While getting a small tank and upgrading later is very tempting don't do it, as you could well end up with stunted fish. Buy as a big a tank as you can afford right away and buy fish for it to stay in it for life. Even if your sure your going to upgrade your circumanstances could change...

Also if you post in the Cichlid section you'll probably get more responses.

 

[sylvia]

While getting a small tank and upgrading later is very tempting don't do it, as you could well end up with stunted fish. Buy as a big a tank as you can afford right away and buy fish for it to stay in it for life. Even if your sure your going to upgrade your circumanstances could change...

Amen

Also, I agree that these wouldn't be the best starter fish. If you are new to fishkeeping, get yourself a nice large tank (much more stable environment) and read up on cycling and maintainance. Then decide on some hardy fish to begin with. Fish like zebra danios, guppies, platies (most of the common livebearers for that matter), and sometimes cories, are better choices to begin with.

 

[ral]

All I have now is a Betta Like him though.

Will take your advice and start with something else. I dont want to start out with a pair of dead fish. The cory's look interesting.