Common Name: True Parrot Cichlid
Scientific Name: Hoplarchus psittacus
Other Names: Parrot Cichlid, True Parrot
The True Parrot Cichlid is a wild-caught cichlid from South America’s blackwater rivers. It is a large, deep-bodied South American cichlid with a rounded profile and dark markings that can change with mood. Its species name, psittacus, is Latin for parrot. It is highly sought after by South American cichlid enthusiasts for its striking appearance and bold, interactive personality.
Habitat and Distribution:
Hoplarchus psittacus lives in blackwater rivers of the Rio Negro and Orinoco basins in Brazil, Colombia and Venezuela, among submerged wood and flooded forest. Blackwater habitats are stained brown by tannins from decaying leaves and wood, and the water is typically very soft and acidic.
Size and Lifespan:
Adults reach about 10-12 inches (25-30 cm). Lifespan in captivity is not well documented for this species, but with good care it can be expected to live for many years.
Diet and Behavior:
It is omnivorous and feeds on insects, crustaceans, small fish and plant matter in the wild. In the aquarium, offer quality cichlid pellets, frozen foods such as krill, bloodworms and shrimp, and some vegetable matter. It is semi-aggressive but fairly calm for its size, and may eat small fish. Feed a varied diet and remove uneaten food promptly to protect water quality.
Breeding and Reproduction:
True parrot cichlids are open substrate spawners that form pairs and guard their eggs and fry. They are rarely bred in aquariums, and successful spawning usually requires a large tank and very soft, acidic water. Little is documented about its breeding habits in the wild.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
A tank of at least 125 gallons is recommended for an adult. Provide driftwood, leaf litter and subdued lighting to mimic its blackwater habitat, with efficient filtration and warm, soft, acidic water. The water temperature should be kept between 79-88°F (26-31°C), with a pH of 4.5-6.5 and soft water. Regular partial water changes are essential to maintain water quality, and new arrivals should be acclimated slowly.
Ideal Tank Mates:
Good tank mates include peaceful to semi-aggressive South American fish that enjoy warm, soft water, such as eartheaters, severums, uaru, plecos and large tetras. Avoid small fish that could be eaten. As with any aquarium, introduce new fish carefully and watch for signs of stress or aggression.
Difficulty Level:
Intermediate to Advanced. It is fairly hardy once settled, but wild-caught fish need warm, soft, acidic water and pristine conditions. It is best suited to experienced aquarists who can provide the space and water quality it needs.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 79-88°F (26-31°C)
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pH: 4.5-6.5
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General Hardness (GH): 1-6 dGH
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Carbonate Hardness (KH): 0-3 dKH
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Ammonia: 0 ppm
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Nitrite: 0 ppm
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Nitrate: <20 ppm (regular water changes required)
Additional Information:
- It comes from soft, acidic blackwater.
- It does best in warm, clean water.
- Fun fact: The True Parrot Cichlid is the only member of its genus, Hoplarchus.
The True Parrot Cichlid is a large, calm cichlid for blackwater aquariums. With the right setup and care, it will be a rewarding addition for many years.
