True Parrot Cichlid

TRUE PARROT CICHLID

Hoplarchus psittacus

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📍 BASIC INFO

Origin: South America – Amazon Basin

Adult Size: 10″ – 12″+

Temperament: Semi-aggressive / Territorial

Care Level: ⭐⭐ Moderate to Advanced

Tank Level: Mid – Bottom

🍽 DIET

Omnivore

Accepts: High-quality pellets, sinking foods, frozen foods (shrimp, bloodworms), occasional vegetables

✔ COMPATIBILITY

Best kept with medium to large South American cichlids. Can be territorial, especially as it matures. Avoid small or timid tankmates. Works well in spacious aquariums with robust tankmates.

💧 WATER PARAMETERS

pH: 6.0 – 7.5

Temperature: 76–84°F

Ammonia: 0 ppm

Nitrite: 0 ppm

Nitrate: <40 ppm

⭐ HIGHLIGHT

A true South American classic — natural parrot cichlid with powerful body shape and vibrant coloration, far more authentic than hybrid “blood parrots.”

📝 CARE NOTES

Requires a large aquarium with strong filtration and stable water conditions. Provide hiding spots using driftwood and rocks. Known for intelligence and personality. Regular water changes are important to maintain health and coloration.

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Fish World Aquarium 🐟