Red Blood Parrot Cichlid

The Red Blood Parrot is produced through selective breeding that emphasises maximum red pigmentation, reducing or eliminating the orange tones of the standard form in favour of a deeper, more saturated crimson-red. This intensified colouration makes the Red Blood Parrot an even bolder display fish and a popular choice for aquarists seeking maximum colour impact.

Care requirements for the Red Blood Parrot are identical to the standard form. Diet plays an important role in maintaining colour intensity, and foods rich in astaxanthin and canthaxanthin will deepen and sustain the red pigmentation. Without adequate dietary colour support, the intense red may fade toward the more typical orange of the standard form.

Like all Blood Parrots, the Red variant is interactive, moderately peaceful for a cichlid, and generally compatible with a range of tankmates of similar size and temperament.

Water: 25–30°C, pH 6.5–7.5; consistent parameters; avoid nitrate accumulation which can cause colour fade. Tank: Minimum 200L; community capable with medium-large robust fish; provide caves and visual breaks. Feeding: Omnivore; colour-enhancing pellets with astaxanthin; frozen krill and shrimp to maintain red intensity. Breeding: Males generally infertile; females may lay eggs; pairs show strong parental care behaviours. Compatibility: Semi-aggressive; good community fish with appropriately sized tankmates.