Blood Parrot Cichlid

Blood Parrot Cichlid key facts

Care level

Intermediate

Lifespan

10-15 years

Size

Up to 20cm

Diet

Sinking prepared foods, frozen foods

Tank

It reaches about 20cm, so adults need a roomy tank. Some individuals swim awkwardly because of a deformed swim bladder, so avoid strong flow.

Water Temperature & Quality

FishBase records 23-33C for Amphilophus citrinellus and 24-30C, pH 7.0-8.0 and 9-20dH for Vieja melanura. The overlap of 24-30C is the working guide.

Tank Mates

The beak-shaped mouth cannot close fully, so the fish loses out in competition for food; check that it is actually feeding. Fish small enough to swallow will be eaten.

Diet & Feeding

Because the mouth will not close, food is crushed with the throat muscles. Choose sinking prepared food in a size the fish can take in easily.

Breeding & Spawning

Most males are infertile and farms inject hormones to raise fertility. Females do spawn, but planned home breeding cannot be expected.

Health & Notes

Compressed vertebrae, a deformed swim bladder and malformed irises are among the deformities, and the ethics of creating the fish are disputed. Dyed fish are said to live shorter lives, and heart-shaped tail cutting is likewise regarded as inhumane.

About Blood Parrot Cichlid

An introduction to the blood parrot cichlid (parrot fire) — its rounded orange body, temperament, care difficulty, lifespan, size, and what to know before bringing one home.

7 things to know before welcoming a Blood Parrot Cichlid

1. 1The Unique Mouth Shape

   Blood parrots have a beak-like mouth that doesn't fully close, so food often falls out while they eat. Remove uneaten food regularly to keep water quality stable, and try different pellet sizes and shapes to make feeding easier.

2. 2Swim Bladder Considerations

   Many blood parrots have a deformed swim bladder, which can make it harder for them to balance in the water. Keep water flow gentle rather than strong, since forceful currents and filtration can be tiring for them.

3. 3Choose Tankmates Carefully

   Blood parrots are generally peaceful and do well with other fish, but their mouth shape can put them at a disadvantage when competing for food. Pick calm tankmates of a similar size and watch feeding time closely.

4. 4Breeding Is Unlikely

   As a hybrid variety, most male blood parrots are unable to reproduce. Keep this in mind if you're hoping to breed them, since successful breeding generally isn't expected.

5. 5Plan for Their Adult Size

   Adults can grow up to about 20 cm, so it's best to set up a tank with enough room for their full-grown size from the start. A cramped environment can add unnecessary stress as they grow.

6. 6A Long-Term Companion

   Blood parrots typically live around 10 to 15 years, making them a long-term commitment. Consider whether you can maintain a stable environment and routine care for that length of time before bringing one home.

7. 7Hardy, But Not Carefree

   Blood parrots are considered a hardy, intermediate-level fish, but their mouth and swim bladder differences mean they need attentive care. Get in the habit of watching their appetite and swimming behavior for any changes.

Frequently asked questions about Blood Parrot Cichlid

Q.Is the blood parrot cichlid suitable for beginners?

A.It's considered a hardy fish, but is generally rated as suitable for intermediate keepers rather than complete beginners. Because of its unique mouth and swim bladder traits, some prior experience with tropical fish is helpful.

Q.Why doesn't its mouth close all the way?

A.This is a trait of the hybrid breeding process, and blood parrots are born with a mouth that never fully closes. It's part of their distinctive look, but it also means food can fall out more easily while they eat.

Q.Can it be kept with other fish?

A.Blood parrots are generally peaceful and can be kept with other fish. However, their mouth shape can put them at a disadvantage when competing for food, so choose calm tankmates of a similar size and watch feeding time closely.

Q.Can blood parrots breed?

A.Because of their hybrid origin, most males are unable to reproduce. They're generally not a good choice if breeding is your main goal.

Q.How big a tank do I need?

A.Adults can grow up to about 20 cm, so it's best to prepare a tank with enough capacity for their full-grown size. Giving them generous space to swim helps them settle in comfortably.

Useful tools for Blood Parrot Cichlid care

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