Description

Red Jumbo Parrot Fish (Hybrid Parrot Cichlid)

📌 Basic Info

• Scientific Name: Cichlasoma sp. (Hybrid Parrot Cichlid)

• Common Names: Red Jumbo Parrot Fish, Jumbo Blood Parrot, Giant Parrot Cichlid

• Family: Cichlidae (Cichlid Family)

• Order: Cichliformes

• Origin: Captive-bred hybrid — developed through selective breeding of larger Midas Cichlids (Amphilophus citrinellus) and Redhead Cichlids (Paraneetroplus synspilus), creating a robust and oversized Parrot variety.

• Size: 20 – 30 cm (8 – 12 inches)

• Lifespan: 10 – 15 years

• Tank Zone: Middle

🌊 Water Parameters

• Temperature: 26 – 30°C (79 – 86°F)

• pH: 6.5 – 7.8

• Hardness: 5 – 20 dGH

🐠 Characteristics

• Body Shape: Rounded, thick, and muscular body with a prominent nuchal hump in mature males.

• Coloration: Deep, intense red body — darker and more solid than standard Parrot Fish.

• Head & Mouth: Signature beak-shaped mouth; expressive facial features.

• Behavior: Territorial yet generally peaceful; intelligent and responsive to their keepers.

• Special Feature: Larger, hardier, and more vivid red than the common Blood Parrot — often a centerpiece fish in large aquariums.

🍽️ Diet

• Type: Omnivorous

• Food: Cichlid pellets, bloodworms, prawns, spirulina, and color-enhancing foods.

• Feeding Frequency: 2 times daily in moderate portions.

• Tip: Use high-protein pellets to maintain body mass and coloration.

🏠 Tank Setup

• Minimum Tank Size: 250 liters (65 gallons) for one adult; larger tanks preferred for pairs.

• Substrate: Smooth gravel or fine sand.

• Décor: Rocks, driftwood, and sturdy plants (or artificial decor) for hiding spaces.

• Lighting: Moderate; bright light brings out red hues.

• Filtration: Strong and efficient — produces heavy bioload.

👥 Behavior & Compatibility

• Nature: Semi-aggressive; territorial during feeding or breeding.

• Best Kept With: Large peaceful fish such as Silver Dollars, Severums, Firemouths, and Giant Gouramis.

• Avoid: Small fish or overly aggressive species like Flowerhorns or Oscars (unless tank is very large).

• Social Note: Recognizes owners and displays social behavior; can be hand-fed with care.

✅ Do’s
• Keep in a large, well-filtered tank.
• Maintain high water quality and warm temperatures.
• Provide hiding areas and ample swimming space.

❌ Don’ts
• Don’t keep in small aquariums.
• Avoid pairing with fin-nippers or very small fish.
• Don’t allow poor filtration — prone to stress in dirty water.

⭐ Quick Tip:
The Red Jumbo Parrot Fish (Hybrid Parrot Cichlid) is a massive, brilliantly colored show fish that brings both personality and elegance to large aquariums. Its glowing red tone and intelligent behavior make it a prized centerpiece for serious cichlid enthusiasts.