A highly popular man-made hybrid (most commonly a cross between a Midas Cichlid and a Redhead Cichlid). They are known for their bright orange/red coloration, nuchal humps, and distinctive 'smiling' deformed mouths. Due to their mouth anatomy, they cannot bite effectively, which makes them less lethal than purebred Central American cichlids, though they retain strong territorial instincts and will aggressively 'bump' tankmates. They are messy eaters and produce a high bioload.
At a Glance
Tank Requirements
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Water Parameters
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Temperament & Compatibility
Available Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Standard / Adult
The fully grown adult form. Requires a large aquarium (55+ gallons) and heavy filtration to manage their significant bioload. Best kept with robust, similarly sized tankmates.
Same care requirements as the base species
Also known as: Adult, Red, Orange, King Kong Parrot
Juvenile (Grow-out)
Juveniles are typically sold at 4-6cm. They grow rapidly and eat voraciously. While they can be housed in smaller aquariums temporarily, they will require an upgrade within months.
Differs in 5 traits from base species
Also known as: Baby, Juvenile
Blood Parrot Cichlid Care Guide Summary
The Blood Parrot Cichlid, scientifically known as Hybrid cichlid (Blood Parrot), belongs to the Cichlids - Central American family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 22 cm and have a globular body shape with a moderate growth rate. Classified as semi-aggressive, this species primarily occupies the mid-level and bottom zones of the aquarium and produces a high level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Blood Parrot Cichlid requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 200 litres and a tank length of at least 120 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 24°C and 28°C, with a pH range of 6.5–8 and a general hardness of 8–20 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred. An aquarium test kit can help you monitor these values.
The Blood Parrot Cichlid is a rewarding species to keep, provided its core environmental needs are met. This species is available in 2 varieties: Standard / Adult and Juvenile (Grow-out). Each may differ slightly in size, temperament, or care needs, so it is worth checking the specific requirements of the variety you plan to keep.
Blood Parrot Cichlid Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Blood Parrot Cichlid, a moderate water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the mid-level and bottom zones, the aquarium layout should prioritise open swimming space in the centre of the tank for free movement and sufficient floor space with hiding spots among rocks, wood, or dense planting. Useful additions include a sand substrate to accommodate their sifting behaviour and smooth gravel or rounded substrate to protect their sensitive barbels. Keepers should note that expect substrate disturbance, so lightweight décor should be secured. Browse aquarium sand substrate options to find the best fit.
Blood Parrot Cichlid Compatibility Notes
Classified as semi-aggressive, the Blood Parrot Cichlid is adaptable and can be kept singly or in a small group, offering flexibility when planning a community tank. When choosing tankmates, territorial behaviour may cause issues if hiding spots or floor space are limited and their energetic swimming style may stress more sedentary or timid species. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the mid-level and bottom zones can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.
Frequently Asked Questions About Blood Parrot Cichlid
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Similar Species
Flowerhorn Cichlid
Hybrid cichlid (Amphilophus cross)
A man-made hybrid cichlid famous for its vibrant colors, extreme interactive personality, and the large nuchal hump (kok) on its head. They are incredibly aggressive 'wet pets' that will attack hands, tank mates, and equipment. They have a massive bioload, dig constantly, and must almost always be kept completely alone.
Red Devil Cichlid
Amphilophus labiatus
A massive, extremely aggressive Central American cichlid. Aptly named, the Red Devil is highly intelligent, interactive, and famous for 'glass-banging' at their owners. They are powerful diggers that will uproot plants and rearrange decor. Because of their sheer aggression and jaw strength, they are almost exclusively kept as 'wet pets' in solitary setups.
African Jewel Cichlid
Hemichromis bimaculatus
A strikingly beautiful but notoriously aggressive West African riverine cichlid. Unlike the alkaline-loving Rift Lake cichlids (e.g., Mbuna), Jewel Cichlids prefer neutral, softer water parameters. They are renowned for their brilliant red breeding dress and iridescent blue spots, but also for their extreme territoriality, especially when forming pairs and spawning. They are avid diggers and will uproot most plants.
Firemouth Cichlid
Thorichthys meeki
A popular Central American cichlid famous for the bright red coloration on its throat and belly, which it flares to intimidate rivals. They are earth-eaters, constantly sifting sand for food. While territorial, especially during breeding, they are relatively peaceful for a cichlid of their size compared to larger Central American counterparts.
Rainbow Shark
Epalzeorhynchos frenatum
A popular, active freshwater 'shark' (actually a cyprinid) known for its striking red fins contrasting with a dark or albino body. They are highly territorial bottom-dwellers. Only keep one per tank, as they are notoriously aggressive toward their own kind, other 'sharks' (like the Red Tail Shark), and similar-looking bottom feeders.
Frontosa
Cyphotilapia frontosa
A majestic and iconic deep-water cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, famous for its striking black and white bands and the prominent nuchal hump on its head. Despite their massive size, they are gentle giants compared to other African cichlids. However, they are highly effective piscivores and will easily consume smaller fish. They are best kept in a 'harem' colony of one male to multiple females.