🐠 Parrot Cichlid Care Guide (Hybrid Cichlid)

🌟 Overview The Parrot Cichlid Care Guide, often sold as the Blood Parrot Cichlid, is a man-made hybrid cichlid known for its bright orange-red coloration, rounded body, and playful personality. Despite debate over its hybrid origins, Parrot Cichlids are extremely popular due to their hardy nature, unique look, and compatibility with many community setups.

🔑 Quick Facts

• Scientific Classification: Hybrid of various cichlid species (exact origins debated)
• Common Name: Parrot Cichlid, Blood Parrot Cichlid
• Size: 7–8 inches (18–20 cm)
• Lifespan: 10–15 years with proper care
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive, but generally peaceful with the right tank mates
• Care Level: Easy to Moderate

🏠 Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 55 gallons for one; larger for groups
• Water Temperature: 76–82°F (24–28°C)
• pH: 6.5–7.5
• Hardness: 6–18 dGH
• Aquascape: Sturdy décor, caves, and hiding spots — avoid sharp decorations due to round mouths
• Filtration: Strong, as they are messy eaters

🍽️ Diet

Parrot Cichlids are omnivores with hearty appetites:

• High-quality cichlid pellets (sinking preferred)
• Frozen/live foods: bloodworms, brine shrimp, krill
• Vegetables: blanched spinach, peas, zucchini
• Variety keeps them healthy and enhances coloration

🧑🤝🧑 Tank Mates

• Good with medium to large peaceful/semi-aggressive fish: silver dollars, severums, angelfish, larger tetras, plecos
• Avoid small tank mates (tetras, shrimp) which may be eaten
• Avoid overly aggressive fish like oscars or jaguar cichlids

🧠 Behavior & Tips

• Known for playful, curious nature — they often interact with their owners
• They cannot fully close their mouths due to hybrid genetics — offer sinking foods
• Can be shy initially, but become bolder in groups or with peaceful tank mates
• Breeding attempts may occur, but eggs are usually infertile due to hybridization

❓ FAQ

Q: How big do Parrot Cichlids get?
A: They typically grow 7–8 inches, requiring spacious aquariums.

Q: Are they good for beginners?
A: Yes, they are hardy and forgiving, though they require larger tanks and good filtration.

Q: Do Parrot Cichlids breed?
A: They may lay eggs, but most are infertile due to hybrid origins.

Q: How long do they live?
A: With good care, they can live 10–15 years.