With their vibrant colors, unique kok patterns, and almost alien-like appearance, Thai Silk Flowerhorn cichlids have become hugely popular in the aquarium trade. Their pearlescent scales shimmer under the aquarium lights, showing off shades of metallic blue, pink, and even purple. Flowerhorn cichlids are man-made hybrids that first appeared in Malaysia and Taiwan in the 1990s. Breeders crossed species like the Trimac, Red Devil, and Blood Parrot to intensify coloration and amplify the signature kok or nuchal hump on the fish’s forehead. The Thai Silk Flowerhorn is a newer color morph that resulted from carefully selective breeding programs. Their unique patterns and pearlescent sheen quickly made them popular in the ornamental fish trade.