LARGE True Parrot Cichlid (6-7”)

Scientific Name:

Hoplarchus psittacus

Maximum Size and Lifespan:

• Size: Up to 12 inches (30 cm)

• Lifespan: 8–10 years or longer with excellent care

Recommended Aquarium Size:

• Minimum tank size: 100 gallons  for a single adult

• A pair or other large fish setup requires 125–180+ gallons

• Requires ample swimming space and hiding spots

Water Changes and General Care:

• Water change: 30–50% weekly to manage waste load and keep water parameters stable

• Filtration: Strong, efficient biological and mechanical filtration is essential

• Aquascape:

  • Use driftwood, rocks, and sturdy plants (though they may uproot or damage plants)

  • Provide caves or large hiding places for territorial breaks and security

• Water parameters:

  • Temperature: 76–82°F 

  • pH: 5.0–7.5 

Tankmates:

• Semi-aggressive and territorial, especially when breeding

• Best with :

  • Severums, Uaru, Larger catfish and plecos, Silver dollars, other Large Central/South American Cichlids, Arowana, Datnoids

Avoid small fish (they may be eaten), and extremely aggressive Central American cichlids.

Diet:

• Omnivorous 
  

• In captivity, offer a varied diet:

  • High-quality cichlid pellets Xtreme Big Fella, Northfin Cichlid Formula.

  • Vegetable matter: spirulina flakes, blanched spinach or zucchini

  • Live/frozen foods: bloodworms, krill, earthworms (in moderation)

  • Occasional treats: chopped shrimp or mussels

Feed once or twice daily, avoiding overfeeding to prevent obesity and water fouling.

Overview:

The True Parrot Cichlid  is a naturally occurring species found in the Amazon and Orinoco river basins, known for its vivid green, blue, and gold iridescent coloring and powerful body structure.

They are intelligent, hardy, and charismatic, but require space, stable water, and experienced care due to their size and temperament. They are less aggressive than many large cichlids but still territorial, especially during breeding.

Natural Environment:

• Found in slow-moving blackwater rivers and floodplain lakes in Colombia, Venezuela, and Brazil

• Waters are warm, soft, acidic, with dense vegetation, submerged branches, and leaf litter

• Natural habitats are low in minerals and rich in tannins, giving the water a tea-like appearance

Breeding:

• Difficult in captivity, but not impossible

• Best achieved in a species-only tank or very large aquarium

• Form monogamous pairs

• Breeding conditions:

  • Soft, acidic water (pH 5.0–6.5)

  • Temp: ~82–84°F (28–29°C)

• The pair will clean a flat surface (stone or wood) to lay 200–500 eggs

• Both parents guard eggs and fry diligently

• Fry hatch in 3–5 days and become free-swimming within a week

• Feed fry live baby brine shrimp, powdered fry food, or infusoria

Note: Breeding is more likely in mature, stable aquariums with established bonded pairs.