What Is a Blood Parrot?

Despite its bird-like name, the blood parrot is a type of fish. It is a member of the cichlid family, and is actually a hybrid type of fish that is man-made. This fish was created in the mid-1980s, most likely by crossing the Midas cichlid with the redhead cichlid, and is typically bright orange. There is some question as to whether or not those were the two types used to created the new hybrid, but this pairing is accepted by many people. Although the fish has been widely available since about the year 2000, some cichlid fanciers feel that it should not be bred due to inherited deformities.

One of the biggest difficulties the blood parrot faces stems from the shape of its mouth. Its head is large and bulbous and somewhat resembles a parrot’s beak, giving rise to the fish’s common name. Its mouth, however, is extremely small and is oriented vertically, which makes it difficult for this fish to eat. It is not unusual for a blood parrot to become very malnourished and even starve to death when kept by an inexperienced owner.

The blood parrot has some other significant deformities as well. Its spine is curved up in a way that makes it hard for this fish to swim normally. A deformed swim bladder is also a frequent complication in the blood parrot, which contributes even further to the difficulties this fish has with routine survival. These problems are generally considered to be related to the heavy inbreeding used to develop this fish, and it is unlikely that selective breeding will be able to correct them.

A male blood parrot is usually sterile, but not always. In some cases breeders have had success injecting the males with hormones to stimulate successful breeding. The females are normally fertile. If spawning results the parents will act like many cichlids, with both parents guarding the nest. Adults often take the fry into their mouths to protect them, and will continue this behavior until the young can survive on their own.

There is some concern among fish fanciers that unscrupulous fish breeders will dye the blood parrot fish that they sell in order to pass them off as different color strains of this fish. The dying process is harmful to the fish and they typically become ill and will not live long after they have been dyed, perhaps a month or so. Anyone wishing to buy an unusually colored blood parrot should be certain of the source before making a purchase.

A Blood Parrot is a hybrid cichlid, created by crossbreeding different South American cichlids, primarily the Midas and the Redhead cichlid. They are known for their bright orange coloration, though they can come in other colors, and their distinctive beak-like mouth, which can make feeding challenging. They are a controversial species due to the ethical implications of their breeding.

Blood Parrot fish can coexist with other non-aggressive species that thrive in similar water conditions. However, due to their unique mouth shape and potential feeding difficulties, they should not be housed with overly competitive fish that might outcompete them for food. It's essential to monitor interactions to ensure a peaceful aquarium environment.

Blood Parrot fish require a well-maintained aquarium with ample space, as they can grow up to 8-10 inches. They need warm water between 76-80°F (24-27°C) and a pH of 6.5-7.4. A varied diet, regular water changes, and hiding places are crucial for their wellbeing. Overfeeding should be avoided to prevent digestive issues.

With proper care, Blood Parrot fish can live for around 10 to 15 years. Their lifespan is influenced by factors such as tank conditions, diet, and genetics. Providing a stress-free environment with optimal water quality and a balanced diet can help maximize their longevity.

Blood Parrot fish are generally infertile due to their hybrid nature, with most being unable to reproduce. On rare occasions, some females may lay eggs, but these are often not viable. The breeding of Blood Parrots is discouraged due to the potential health issues and deformities passed on to offspring.

The controversy surrounding Blood Parrot fish stems from their artificial creation, which often results in physical deformities and health issues, such as a malformed mouth that can hinder feeding. Animal welfare advocates argue that the breeding practices are unethical, as they prioritize aesthetics over the fish's quality of life.