True Parrot Cichlid (Hoplarchus psittacus)

Fish in the family Cichlidae. Hard care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameHoplarchus psittacus

FamilyCichlidae

Also known asParrot Cichlid, Psittacus Cichlid

Care levelHard

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentSemi Aggressive

DietCarnivore

Adult size12 in

Minimum tank size75 gallons

Water parametersTemp 79-88°F, pH 4.5-6.5, GH 1-5 dGH

Appearance

Large emerald-green cichlid with fine red speckling, a parrot-like profile, and dark blotches; intensifies to brilliant green when settled.

Difficulty and care for the True Parrot Cichlid

Hard

Origin and habitat

Rio Negro and Orinoco blackwaters

Keeper notes

Surprisingly peaceful for its size but territorial when paired; sensitive and slow-growing.

Log True Parrot Cichlid in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track True Parrot Cichlid alongside everything else in your reef.

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