Parrot cichlids are colorful and uniquely shaped due to their hybridization with other cichlids from inline breeding by aquarists. The most popular variety is
Blood Parrot Cichlids. These cichlids have been in the hobby now for over a decade and have become available with regularity. There is speculation on exactly what makes up this cichlid. Some believe it’s a cross between a
Midas cichlids and a
Synspilum cichlid while others contend that it was developed from crossing
Severum with the
Red Devil cichlid. In any case it has been thought in Asian culture that Blood Parrots bring luck and fortune. These fish are very popular in community aquariums in Asian restaurants.
One of the hallmark features of blood red parrot fish are their deformed mouths which are beak shaped and distorted or stunted bodies. It has been recorded that these fish may experience difficulty with eating regular cichlid pellets and as such fish food manufacturers have created foods specifically for parrot cichlids which is easier for they to chew and digest. These fish are developed in a variety of colors with the blood red being most popular. In the aquarium they are normally kept in small groups or pairs. As most cichlids are messy eaters so are Blood Parrot fish and so proper filtration is highly encouraged. Any good power filter will serve this purpose and provide a good current for water needed circulation.
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