How to Identify Blood Parrot Cichlid

To identify Blood Parrot Cichlid (Amphilophus citrinellus × Heros severus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

rounded

Coloration

Typically bright orange, red, or yellow. Some variants are dyed unnatural colors (e.g., purple, blue, green), which is a harmful practice. Natural coloration can also include marbled patterns or patches of black.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Bulbous, rounded body shape, Large, prominent eyes, Small, permanently partially open mouth that forms a 'beak-like' appearance, Absence of a nuchal hump (forehead bump) common in some cichlids, Often have a slightly deformed spine, contributing to their rounded appearance

Dorsal fin

Long and continuous, extending along most of the back, often with a slight dip in the middle.

Tail fin

Fan-shaped, typically rounded or slightly truncated.

Pectoral fin

Well-developed and used for propulsion and maneuvering.

Distinctive fins

All fins are generally well-formed, though some individuals may exhibit minor deformities due to their hybrid nature.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Mouth Structure

   The most defining characteristic is their small, permanently partially open mouth, which gives them a 'beak-like' appearance and limits their ability to close it fully.

2. 2

   Body Shape

   They possess a distinctive, rounded, and somewhat compressed body, often described as 'balloon-like'.

3. 3

   Coloration

   Typically vibrant orange, red, or yellow. Be wary of unnaturally colored individuals, as these are often dyed.

4. 4

   Absence of Nuchal Hump

   Unlike some of their parent species (e.g., Midas Cichlid), Blood Parrot Cichlids generally lack a prominent nuchal hump on their forehead.

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