Blood Parrot Cichlid

Blood parrot cichlid is an interbreed of different species of cichlid and they do not occur in nature. It is also known as parrot cichlid and bloody parrot fish. They are unique in their appearance. Blood parrot cichlids were first created in Taiwan by sexing different breeds of cichlids and was first marketed in 1986. They have different anatomical features. They are called parrot cichlid as their nose looks like parrots beak. They have a round balloon shaped body and a very small mouth. Calico patterned blotches in their body make them look very beautiful. Due to their dark red body color they are known as blood parrot fish.

Blood Parrot Cichlid Care
These fish can survive well in tanks or aquariums under suitable conditions. The tank should have plenty of hiding places, so that they are able to carve their niche. Rocks, clay pots and driftwoods can be used to make caves and hiding places. They also love to dig in gravel. Use soft material for the substrate. These freshwater parrot cichlid require a fish tank of minimum 35 gallons and when they grow bigger they need tanks of 55 gallons. They grow up to 8-10 inches.

Blood parrot cichlid is a fresh and soft water species. They survive best at a temperature range of 70C-80C and pH 6.5- 7. Sufficient light should be maintained inside the tank and the water must be replaced twice a month.

Blood Parrot Cichlid Compatibility
These fish are gentle and shy. They are compatible with breeds that are not aggressive and are of similar behavior. Since they are shy, they are often unable to compete for food inside the aquarium. They adjust well with peaceful fish like catfish, danios, angelfish, cory cats, silver dollars, and barbs. In one word, the behavior of this fish is extremely decent.

It is known that their eggs are usually infertile. Though they mate and lay eggs, their eggs do not hatch. Sometimes crossing with non-hybrid fish leads to successful spawning. The eggs which are infertile will turn white with fungus and then the parents eat those eggs to avoid spread of fungus inside the tank.

Other Useful Information
Its food includes frozen, freeze dried, live, flakes and crushed food. Brine shrimp and blood worms are their favorite food. They live more on sinking foods than floating foods inside the tank. Foods rich in beta carotene and canthaxanthin help to retain their bright hue.

Black spot disease is one of the most common diseases affecting this fish. They get black spots on their body due to poor habitat and water quality. However, sometimes this condition depicts their spawning mood. Before buying, always verify that the fish is disease free.

Blood parrot cichlid colors vary from red, orange, violet and purple color. The color depends on the type of crossbred species. They can also be dyed albinos or pale red. Since they are hybrids, the parrot cichlids are also found in green and yellow colors. One of the most popular mating is between the midas cichlid (Cichlasoma citrinellum) and redhead cichlid (Cichlasoma synspilum). There are other varieties of cichlids produced by cross breeding between pink convict cichlid and blood parrot cichlid. They have purple color and are commonly known as bubble gum parrots and jellybean parrots. Few blood parrot breeds do not have tail fins and are known as love heart parrots.

Blood parrot cichlid is a lovely variety and can be reared at home in tanks and aquariums. If you are interested in fish farming, you can cross breed different varieties of parrot fish and get the colored fish of your choice. Happy Rearing!