The Thai Silk Flowerhorn is a captivating and relatively new variety of Flowerhorn cichlid, known for its unique pearlescent sheen and metallic appearance. Unlike other Flowerhorns, the Thai Silk exhibits a silvery-blue coloration with a silky texture, making it a highly sought-after fish among aquarium enthusiasts. Key characteristics: Appearance: The most distinguishing feature of the Thai Silk Flowerhorn is its pearlescent, metallic sheen, which gives it a unique, almost three-dimensional look. They typically display a silvery-blue or bluish-white base color, often with red or orange accents on their fins and body. Kok (Nuchal Hump): Like other Flowerhorns, the Thai Silk develops a prominent nuchal hump on its forehead, known as a kok. The size and shape of the kok can vary depending on the individual fish and its genetics. Size: Thai Silk Flowerhorns can grow to be quite large, with males typically reaching 8-12 inches and females reaching 6-8 inches in length. Temperament: Flowerhorns, including the Thai Silk variety, are known for their aggressive and territorial nature. They are best kept as solitary specimens or with very carefully chosen tank mates in a large aquarium. Care requirements: Tank Size: A minimum tank size of 75 gallons is recommended for a single adult Thai Silk Flowerhorn, with larger tanks (100-125 gallons) being ideal. Water Parameters: They prefer a water temperature of 78-82°F (25-28°C), a pH level of 6.5-7.5, and moderate hardness. Diet: Thai Silk Flowerhorns are omnivores and require a varied diet consisting of high-quality cichlid pellets, supplemented with live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, bloodworms, and krill. Tank Setup: The tank should be well-filtered and aerated, with sturdy decorations that the fish cannot easily move or damage. Social Needs: Due to their aggressive nature, Thai Silk Flowerhorns are best kept alone to avoid conflicts with other fish.