Species Profile
Species Library

Blood Parrot Cichlid

Accuracy: Verified
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This profile has completed research review. Source-backed care information is shown below. Final publication checks are still pending.
Species profile

Blood Parrot Cichlid

Hybrid cichlid
Semi aggressive Moderate care 650 L minimum aquarium 20–25 cm adult size Mid bottom Can be kept singly

About this species

General notes for hobby use.

Large captive-created hybrid cichlid with variable temperament and body shape; adults are messy and need a genuinely large footprint.

Water parameters

Suggested general range for long-term care.

Temperature 22–28 °C
pH 6.5–8
GH Up to 20 dGH
KH Not yet documented
Flow preference Low–moderate
Data confidence Verified

Behaviour

General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.

Minimum group size Can be kept singly
Tank zone Mid bottom
Territory level Moderate
Predation risk Small fish
Bioload factor 3.5
Temperament varies substantially by individual and lineage. Can defend territory, uproot décor and overwhelm smaller tankmates.

Compatibility flags

Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.

Fin nipper No
Plant safe Caution
Shrimp safe No / caution
Snail safe No / caution
Cave breeder No
Digs substrate Yes
Jump risk Low

Natural history & care

Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.

Lifespan Not yet documented
Diet type Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume 650 L
Minimum footprint 180 × 60 cm
Alternative names Blood Parrot Cichlid, Red Parrot Cichlid, Parrot Cichlid
Native range
Captive-created hybrid; no natural geographic range.
Natural habitat
Aquarium-only hybrid. Habitat requirements are husbandry requirements rather than a reconstruction of a wild biotope.
Diet & feeding
Use appropriately sized sinking/floating prepared foods and varied supplements; mouth deformity in some fish can make food capture less efficient.

Breeding & sexing

Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.

Sexing
External sexing is unreliable; breeding behaviour and genital papilla are more useful than colour or head shape.
Breeding
Pairs may court and lay eggs, but fertility is inconsistent and many clutches are non-viable; outcome depends on lineage and sex.