How to Identify Blood Parrot Cichlid

To identify Blood Parrot Cichlid (Amphilophus citrinellus x Vieja melanurus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Typically bright orange, red, or yellow. Some varieties may be artificially dyed blue, purple, or green, which is detrimental to their health. Natural coloration can also include marbled patterns or black spots.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

subterminal

Distinctive features

Protruding, often fused, 'beak-like' mouth that cannot fully close., Large, round eyes., Short, stout body., Absence of a nuchal hump, unlike some parent species., Often have a slightly deformed spine, contributing to their rounded appearance.

Dorsal fin

Long, continuous dorsal fin, often extending along most of the back.

Tail fin

Rounded to slightly emarginate caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Well-developed pectoral fins, used for maneuvering.

Distinctive fins

All fins are generally proportionate to their body size, though some individuals may exhibit minor fin deformities.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Mouth Structure

   The most defining feature is their small, downward-pointing mouth that cannot fully close, giving them a 'beak-like' appearance. This is a key differentiator from their parent species.

2. 2

   Body Shape

   They possess a distinctly rounded, somewhat 'balloon-like' body, often appearing compressed laterally. This differs from the more elongated bodies of their Midas and Redhead Cichlid ancestors.

3. 3

   Coloration

   While variable, natural Blood Parrots are typically vibrant orange, red, or yellow. Be wary of unnaturally colored individuals (blue, purple) as these are often dyed.

4. 4

   Absence of Nuchal Hump

   Unlike many large cichlids, including their Midas Cichlid parent, Blood Parrot Cichlids typically do not develop a prominent nuchal hump on their forehead.

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