Red Parrot

The Red Parrot is a hybrid aquarium fish species that has sparked much debate. The Red Parrot’s genetic mixing, is possibly formed by crossing the midas cichlid (Amphilophus citrinellus) and the Gold Severum cichlid (Heros severus).

The Red Parrot is a cross between the midas and the redhead cichlid. Around 1986, the fish was invented in Taiwan. Although they have been available for some time, blood parrot cichlids were not commonly available in pet stores before the year 2000. They are commonly referred to as blood parrots or bloody parrots, and should not be confused with freshwater parrot cichlids (Hoplarchus Psittacus) or saltwater parrot fish (Callyodon fasciatus).

I. Size

• Average Adult Size: 7 to 8 inches
• Maximum Adult Size:10 inches
• Swimming Level: Mid- and bottom-level

II. You would love the fish because…

Red Parrot is usually vivid orange, but it can also be red, yellow, or grey. Unsavory breeders may also dye the fish to produce different colors. Adult fish can reach a length of 7 to 8 inches (20 cm) and live for 10 to 15 years. Males are a little bigger than females.

These hybrids are easily identified by their distinctive traits, which include a circular body and a beak-like head with huge eyes. The mouth is usually open, and the teeth are far down in the throat, rendering the fish unable to fight and making eating difficult.

III. Is this fish species peaceful or hostile?

• Recommended: 4
• Recommended Male/Female – 1:1
• Overall hostility: Peaceful
• Hostility towards own species: Peaceful
• Hostility towards other Species: Peaceful

IV. Species compatibility

Red parrots should not be housed with aggressive fish since they are unprepared to compete for food or territory in the aquarium. Owners have successfully kept them in community aquariums with a variety of peaceful fish. Tankmates could include medium-sized tetras, danios, angelfish, and catfish.

V. How to feed this species?

Red Parrot will consume a wide range of meals, including flake, live, frozen, and freeze-dried items. They prefer to eat sinking items over floating things. The most popular treats among owners are bloodworms and live brine shrimp. B-carotene and canthaxanthin-rich foods will help keep their brilliant colors.

Recommended food

• Tetra Red Parrot

• Taiyo Pro-Rich Red Parrot Pellet

Word for the wise

Live Plants

Driftwood

Rocks

Live, frozen food

Aquarium Starter Kit

Filter

Heater

Thermometer

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Disclaimer for Individual fish prices