Red Blood Parrot

Overview

• Scientific Name: Cichlasoma spp. (often considered a hybrid)
• Common Name: Red Blood Parrot, Blood Parrot Cichlid
• Family: Cichlidae
• Origin: They are believed to be a hybrid of the Midas Cichlid (Amphilophus citrinellus) and the Red Devil Cichlid (Amphilophus labiatus), developed in the 1990s in Taiwan.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Red Blood Parrots typically grow to 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm) in length, although some individuals can reach up to 10 inches (25 cm) with proper care.
• Coloration: They are known for their bright red or orange body, which can vary in intensity. Some may have hints of yellow or orange on their fins.
• Body Shape: Their body is unique, resembling a round or oval shape with a beak-like mouth, which is a characteristic of the hybridization process. This shape leads to a distinctive "parrot" appearance.

Behavior

• Temperament: Red Blood Parrots are generally peaceful and social. They can be shy but are also curious and will often interact with their owners. They tend to get along with other non-aggressive fish.
• Sociability: They can be kept in community tanks with other medium to large cichlids and peaceful fish. However, care should be taken to avoid overly aggressive tank mates.
• Activity Level: Active swimmers, Blood Parrots enjoy exploring their environment and may occasionally dig in the substrate.

Habitat and Tank Requirements

• Tank Size: A minimum tank size of 30 gallons is recommended for a single Red Blood Parrot. A larger tank (40 gallons or more) is ideal for a group or community setup.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 75°F to 80°F (24°C to 27°C)
  • pH Level: 6.5 to 8.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
  • Water Hardness: 5 to 15 dGH
• Substrate: A sandy or fine gravel substrate is preferred, as it is gentle on their sensitive mouths.
• Tank Setup:
  • Provide plenty of hiding spots with rocks, caves, and driftwood.
  • Use sturdy plants or artificial decorations, as Blood Parrots may uproot or damage delicate plants.
  • Ensure strong filtration to maintain water quality, as they are sensitive to poor conditions.

Diet

• Feeding: Red Blood Parrots are omnivores, requiring a balanced diet:
  • High-quality cichlid pellets or flakes should form the base of their diet.
  • Supplement with frozen or live foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.
  • Include vegetable matter, such as blanched spinach or zucchini, to provide fiber.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed once or twice daily, offering enough food that can be consumed within a few minutes.

Breeding

• Breeding Behavior: Red Blood Parrots can breed in captivity, although breeding can be challenging due to their hybrid nature.
  • They require a suitable spawning site, like flat rocks or broad leaves, where the female can lay eggs.
  • Both parents may care for the eggs and fry, but not all pairs will exhibit strong parental behavior.
• Fry Care: The eggs typically hatch within 3 to 5 days, and the fry will need to be fed specialized fry food or infusoria once they become free-swimming.

Compatibility

• Tank Mates: Suitable tank mates for Red Blood Parrots include:
  • Other medium to large cichlids, such as Oscar Cichlids or Convict Cichlids
  • Peaceful community fish like Tetras, Barbs, or Plecos
• Avoid keeping them with overly aggressive or fin-nipping fish, as they can become stressed or harmed.

Lifespan

• Lifespan: With proper care, Red Blood Parrots can live for 10 to 15 years in captivity.

Health Considerations

• Common Diseases: Red Blood Parrots can be prone to freshwater fish diseases such as Ich and fin rot, particularly if water quality is poor or if they are stressed.
• Water Quality: Regular water changes and maintenance are crucial to keep them healthy. Monitor water parameters closely.

Interesting Facts

1. Hybrid Origins: The Red Blood Parrot is a hybrid, which has led to some controversy regarding their breeding practices and health issues. Despite this, they have become popular in the aquarium trade.
2. Unique Mouth Shape: Their beak-like mouth is adapted for feeding on soft foods, which can lead to challenges with certain types of food.
3. Intelligent Behavior: Red Blood Parrots are known for their intelligence and can often recognize their owners, making them interactive pets.