Blood Parrot Cichlid

The Blood Parrot Cichlid emerged from hybrid breeding programs in Taiwan in the late 1980s, believed to be a cross between Amphilophus citrinellus (Midas Cichlid) and Vieja synspila or similar species. The result is a fish with a distinctive rotund body, an upturned beak-like mouth that opens only partially, and brilliant orange-red colouration that fades or intensifies with diet and health.

Blood Parrots are among the most popular ornamental cichlids globally, appreciated for their manageable temperament, robust constitution, and engaging personalities. They are interactive fish that recognise owners and actively respond to their presence, making them rewarding pets for aquarists of all experience levels.

Despite their hybrid origins, Blood Parrots are generally hardy when well cared for. Their partially fused mouths may make some foods inaccessible, but they adapt readily to appropriately sized pellets, frozen foods, and other standard cichlid fare.

Water: 25–30°C, pH 6.5–7.5; moderately soft to moderately hard; avoid ammonia and nitrite; 25–30% weekly water changes. Tank: Minimum 200L; can be kept with other medium-large cichlids; provide several hiding spots and open swimming areas. Feeding: Omnivore; floating pellets, frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp; medium-sized pellets suit the beak-shaped mouth best. Breeding: Males generally infertile; females may spawn but eggs typically unfertilised; pairs can form strong bonds. Compatibility: Semi-aggressive; compatible with similarly sized robust fish including other cichlids, large tetras, and armoured catfish.