The True Parrot Cichlid (Hoplarchus psitticum), native to the Amazon and Orinoco river basins, is a stunning and majestic fish known for its vibrant green and turquoise coloration. Because of its large size and specific requirements, keeping this species successfully in an aquarium requires proper preparation and care.
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1. Aquarium Setup and Water Parameters
Tank Size: Adults can grow up to 12–15 inches long. A minimum tank size of 75 to 90 gallons is recommended for a single specimen or a bonded pair.
Water Conditions: They thrive in soft, acidic water. Maintain a temperature of 76°F to 82°F (24°C–28°C), a pH level between 5.5 and 6.8, and low general hardness (GH).
Decoration: Replicate their natural South American habitat using a fine sand substrate, driftwood branches, and smooth rocks to create natural hiding spots. Live plants can be added, but robust species are preferred since these cichlids like to rearrange their decor.
2. Diet and Nutrition
Omnivorous Needs: In the wild, they consume fruits, seeds, insects, and small fish. In captivity, provide a varied diet of high-quality cichlid pellets, flakes, and frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and mysis shrimp.
Vegetable Matter: Because of their natural herbivorous tendencies in part, supplementing their diet with spirulina flakes or blanched vegetables (like zucchini or peas) helps maintain vibrant coloration and good digestion.
3. Temperament and Tank Mates
Behavior: While they are generally more peaceful than many other large Neotropical cichlids, they can still be territorial—especially when breeding or establishing dominance.
Tank Mates: Good tank mates include other large, peaceful-to-semi-aggressive South American cichlids, large tetras, and armored catfish (like Plecos). Avoid keeping them with small fish that can easily fit into their mouths.
With clean water, a spacious tank, and proper nutrition, the True Parrot Cichlid will reward you with years of striking beauty and fascinating behavior.