Platinum Parrot

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• Scientific Name: Hybrid (Blood Parrot Cichlid, a cross between Amphilophus citrinellus and Paraneetroplus synspilus)
• Common Names: Platinum Parrot, Platinum Blood Parrot
• Family: Cichlidae
• Origin: Man-made hybrid, bred in captivity; not found in the wild.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Platinum Parrot Cichlids typically grow to about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm) in length.
• Coloration: Their most distinctive feature is their brilliant platinum-white or silver color, which gives them a glossy, metallic appearance. The albino-like coloration is the result of selective breeding.
• Body Shape: Like all Parrot Cichlids, they have a characteristic round, bulbous body with a beak-like mouth. They often have a "parrot" shaped profile, with a slightly compressed body and a pronounced forehead.

Behavior

• Temperament: Platinum Parrot Cichlids are generally peaceful but can become territorial during breeding or when stressed. Despite their unusual mouth structure, they can still be somewhat aggressive toward smaller or overly timid fish.
• Sociability: They can be kept in community tanks with other semi-aggressive fish but should not be housed with overly aggressive species or very small tank mates.
• Activity Level: They are active swimmers and enjoy interacting with their environment and tank mates. Platinum Parrots are also known to be curious and can recognize their owners.

Habitat and Tank Requirements

• Tank Size: A minimum tank size of 55 gallons is recommended for one Platinum Parrot Cichlid. For multiple fish or tank mates, a larger tank is necessary.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 75°F to 80°F (24°C to 27°C)
  • pH Level: 6.5 to 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
  • Water Hardness: 5 to 12 dGH
• Substrate: A sandy or smooth gravel substrate is ideal, as they like to dig.
• Tank Setup:
  • Provide plenty of caves, rocks, and plants for hiding and exploring.
  • Maintain open swimming areas.
  • Good filtration and regular water changes are crucial, as Platinum Parrots are sensitive to water quality.

Diet

• Feeding: Platinum Parrot Cichlids are omnivores, so they require a balanced diet:
  • High-quality cichlid pellets or flakes should be the staple of their diet.
  • Supplement with live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.
  • Include plant matter or algae-based foods for nutritional balance.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed them once or twice a day, offering enough food that they can consume within a few minutes.

Breeding

• Breeding Behavior: While Platinum Parrots exhibit mating behaviors, they often have difficulty successfully breeding due to their hybrid nature.
  • Females may lay eggs, but in many cases, the eggs are not fertilized.
  • If successful breeding occurs, fry should be fed with appropriate fry food.

Compatibility

• Tank Mates: Suitable tank mates for Platinum Parrot Cichlids include:
  • Other medium-sized, semi-aggressive cichlids (e.g., Firemouths, Severums)
  • Larger tetras, gouramis, or catfish species
  • Avoid smaller or very aggressive fish, as they may be bullied or injured.

Lifespan

• Lifespan: With proper care, Platinum Parrot Cichlids can live for 10 to 15 years.

Health Considerations

• Common Diseases: They are susceptible to diseases like Ich and hole-in-the-head disease. Maintaining good water quality is essential for their health.
• Water Quality Sensitivity: Regular water changes and maintaining stable water parameters are important to avoid stress and illness.

Interesting Facts

1. Hybrid Origins: Platinum Parrot Cichlids are a result of hybridization between two cichlid species, which is why they have a unique body shape and mouth structure.
2. Color Variation: While they are typically platinum white, variations can appear due to diet and water conditions, and some may have a faint pinkish hue.
3. Artificial Selection: The Platinum Parrot is not found in the wild and has been selectively bred for its metallic white coloration.