The Blood Parrot Cichlid, a captivating freshwater fish, has gained immense popularity in the aquarium hobby. This comprehensive article delves into the dietary needs of the Blood Parrot Cichlid, offering valuable insights for both novice and experienced aquarists.
Origin and Appearance
The Blood Parrot Cichlid is a hybrid fish that was first created in Taiwan in the mid to late 1980s. Its parentage has been highly disputed, but the most commonly speculated pairings are Midas Cichlid (Amphilophus Citrinellus) with the Redhead Cichlid (Paratheraps Synspilum). One of the more wild theories is the Severum (Heros Severus) with the Red Devil Cichlid (Amphilophus Labiatus). These fish are man-made species of cichlid created through cross-breeding. You can usually find them sold under the name "blood parrot" or "red parrots".
Blood Parrots have a round and balloon-like body that looks rather unnatural. They have large eyes and a small mouth that looks similar in shape to that of a parrot's beak, hence their name. These fish also cannot close their mouths, so it looks almost as if they're smiling. They have teeth, but they're deep down near their throat. These distinct features further add to the comical appearance they're known for. The size of the Blood Parrot Cichlid size is usually around 10-12 cm long, though adults can grow up to 20 cm long, with males being slighter bigger than females.
They are often seen in bright orange in coloration, but seen in other colors such as red, yellow, brown, and tan. Unfortunately, these hybrids are often artificially colored through inhumane methods of dying or tattooing. Ornamental fish like the Blood Parrot Cichlid are hugely popular around the world because of their unique color patterns and behaviors.
General Care
A good rule of thumb is 30 gallon for one and 10 more gallons for each additional Blood Parrot. An aquarium around 60-70 gallons, or a tank that's at least 6ft x 2ft x 2ft, gives them plenty of space to swim. Be sure to also decorate the bottom of the tank with driftwood and fine gravel as they're a curious breed and like to dig. These fish also need plenty of places to hide, so you should also decorate their tanks with vegetation. Just make sure you use artificial plants, as real plants become a source of food for them.
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Temperatures should be between 76 - 86F (24 - 30C) but the ideal temperature should be between 82 - 84F (26 - 29C). Keep the water temperature in their tank around 78 degrees Fahrenheit or 26 degrees Celsius. Temperatures any lower than that could weaken your Blood Parrot Cichlid's immune system and even make them lose their color. Avoid harsh water and keep the pH level at about seven to help your Blood Parrot Cichlid thrive.
Blood Parrots like all Central American Cichlids are territorial and not typically suitable for small community fish. If it fits in their mouth or close then they will try to eat it. Given the proper tank Blood Parrots typically get along fine with most Central and Southern American Cichlids although large overly aggressive cichlids should be avoided as tankmates or house with caution. It's best not to mix them in with betta fish or other combative breeds, as they won't be able to compete with them for food or turf in your aquarium. Blood Parrot Cichlids also swim relatively slowly, so chances are they won't get to food before their faster moving tank mates.
Some ideal companion fish include:
- Gouramis
- Large Rainbowfish
- Catfish
- Danios Barbs
- Larger, deep-bodied Tetrafish
- Severum Cichlids
- Firemouth Cichlids
- Acara Cichlids
- Some varieties of Geophagus
Nutritional Needs of Blood Parrot Cichlids
The Blood Parrot Cichlid is an omnivore and feasts on a variety of foods, including flakes, frozen pellets, bloodworms, brine shrimp, Krill and Mysis, mosquito larvae, freeze-dried foods, and even live fish. They require a balanced diet to maintain their health, vibrant colors, and overall well-being. A varied diet that includes high-quality commercial foods, supplemented with live or frozen treats, is ideal.
Commercial Foods
Pelleted foods should be the foundation of a Blood Parrot Cichlid's diet. Recommended pellet brands are Hikari Cichlid or New Life Spectrum Cichlid/Cichlasoma Formula 1 - 3mm depending on the size of the fish. Keep in mind that pellet foods that sink to the bottom of the aquarium are easier for them to eat. You should even be able to find food specific to their breed at your local pet store or online.
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Floating pellets are also a good choice because then the cichlids can come up from underneath the food and then gravity helps the granules to fall inside. A smaller pellet size should be used due to their mouths.
Live and Frozen Foods
Supplementing the diet with live and frozen foods provides essential nutrients and stimulates the Blood Parrot Cichlid's natural feeding instincts.
- Bloodworms: Bloodworms are a favorite treat for Blood Parrot Cichlids. According to most owners, frozen bloodworms and brine shrimp are the Blood Parrot Cichlid's preferred treat.
- Brine Shrimp: Brine shrimp are another excellent source of protein and can be offered live or frozen.
- Krill and Mysis Shrimp: These crustaceans are rich in carotenoids, which enhance the vibrant red-orange coloration of Blood Parrot Cichlids.
- Mosquito Larvae: Mosquito larvae are a natural food source and provide essential nutrients.
Vegetable Matter
While Blood Parrot Cichlids are primarily omnivorous, incorporating vegetable matter into their diet is crucial for their digestive health. Thawed shelled peas should be fed once a week to add ruf***e to the diet to help prevent Swim Bladder problems.
Feeding Challenges and Solutions
Feeding can sometimes be tricky as some have more deformed mouths than others or gill curl or other gill deformities. Because their little mouths do not open or close very much, they have to carefully line up their bodies with the food and then swim forward to “scoop” it in. This extra step can cause them to become outcompeted during mealtimes, so they need something that can be easily swallowed.
Here are some tips for ensuring your Blood Parrot Cichlids receive adequate nutrition:
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- Offer a variety of foods: This ensures they receive a balanced intake of nutrients.
- Feed small, frequent meals: This prevents overeating and minimizes the risk of digestive issues.
- Observe feeding behavior: Monitor your fish to ensure they are actively eating and not being outcompeted by tankmates.
- Use appropriate food sizes: Select food sizes that are easily manageable for their small mouths.
- Soak dry foods: Soaking dry foods before feeding can make them easier to swallow and digest.
Specific Dietary Considerations
Enhancing Coloration
Foods that are high in b-carotene and canthaxanthin also help keep your Blood Parrot Cichlid's vibrant and healthy red-orange coloring. To enhance the vibrant red-orange coloration of Blood Parrot Cichlids, incorporate foods rich in carotenoids into their diet. Carotenoids are natural pigments found in certain foods, such as:
- Carrots: Grated carrots can be offered as a supplemental food source.
- Sweet Potatoes: Cooked sweet potatoes are another excellent source of carotenoids.
- Spirulina: Spirulina is a blue-green algae that is rich in carotenoids and other essential nutrients.
Addressing Swim Bladder Issues
Swim Bladder Issues: They show an abnormal swimming pattern, may even float upside down or appear to be stuck at the surface of the water, being unable to swim down, or they may lie on the bottom, unable to rise. Fish with a swim bladder disorder will continue to try and feed, showing a normal appetite. This is usually caused by a poor diet.
To prevent this from happening it is recommended to feed shelled peas once a week for that days meals. For severe cases add 1 Tbsp per gallon of Epsom Salt into a container of water. Place the fish in the Epsom Salt bath for 20 - 30 minutes.
Dealing with Picky Eaters
Blood Parrots, especially when young, can be very shy and reclusive. Its typical for them to hide when you first bring them home to hide and/or be very skittish and can take a few weeks for them to adjust to their new surroundings. Some ways for you to help them adjust is to make sure they have several hiding spots and adding some dither fish. If you encounter a picky eater, try the following:
- Offer a variety of foods: Experiment with different food types to find what they prefer.
- Soak foods in garlic juice: Garlic juice can enhance the palatability of food.
- Feed live foods: Live foods are often more enticing to picky eaters.
Common Misconceptions about Blood Parrot Cichlid Diets
- Blood Parrot Cichlids can only eat small foods: While they have small mouths, they can still consume larger food items that have been softened or broken into smaller pieces.
- Blood Parrot Cichlids are strictly herbivorous: They are omnivores and require a diet that includes both plant and animal matter.
- Feeding Blood Parrot Cichlids is difficult: With proper knowledge and care, feeding Blood Parrot Cichlids can be a simple and rewarding experience.