..............................Parrot cichlid
Other names:...........False mouth cichlid Origin:......................upper Rio Negro, Brazil Max size:..................12" PH:............-..............6.4-6.8 Temperature:...........74-80 F. Min tank size:..........60 gallons Food:.........................beef heart, pellets, vegetable foods, live foods |
The Parrot cichlid is a colorful and perhaps under rated cichlid. Whether this fish's name comes from its parrotlike face or its green color is uncertain, but either way the Parrot cichlid is a nice looking fish. Like the Oscar, this cichlid displays the "eye spot" near its caudal fin, with a long band of blotches running the length of its body. As the fish grows, its body color changes from a dull grey, to an intense green. Either way the fish is provided with considerable protection from predators because of camouflage that its coloring provides. The name "False mouth" refers to a line that runs from the eye to just above the mouth.
Parrot cichlids are picky about water conditions. Although they will tolerate medium-hard water, they prefer soft and slightly acidic water. These large cichlids are especially picky about water conditions if you want them to spawn. An extremly good filtration system is required to keep this fish in good health. Provide a secure environment with plants and bogwood for cover, as this fish takes fright very easily. Low lighting levels and the proper water conditions also help to ease the situation. The Parrot cichlid is far from aggressive and will usually only fight with males of the same species.
The fish spawn on flat vertically placed rocks and lay about 800 eggs, guarding them for a week. Feed the free swimming fry with newly hatched brineshrimp.
We appreciate your feedback.