Cichlid-Polar Parrot Large

Polar Parrot Cichlid (Polar Blue Parrot Cichlid)

• Common names: Polar Parrot, Polar Blue Parrot, Polar Blue Convict

• Scientific name: Amphilophus citrinellus × Archocentrus nigrofasciatus (hybrid)

• Family: Cichlidae

• Origin: Man-made hybrid — created by crossing a Blood Parrot Cichlid with a Convict Cichlid (usually the “Blue Convict” variant)

• Type: Freshwater, hybrid cichlid (not found in the wild)

🔹 Appearance

• Rounded, stocky body shape similar to the Blood Parrot, but smaller

• Colouration:

  • Shimmering blue-white or icy blue body

  • Often has faint vertical bars or pearly speckles

  • Eyes may appear reddish or bright orange

• Size: Typically 10–13 cm (4–5 in) when fully grown

• Compact, muscular build with a nuchal hump in mature males

• Fins are broad and slightly pointed, sometimes showing a soft iridescent tint

🔹 Temperament & Behaviour

• Semi-aggressive — more peaceful than many cichlids, but still territorial

• Behavior varies: calm when alone or in pairs, but can be feisty with similar-sized fish

• Intelligent and curious, often interact with their keepers

• Best kept singly, in bonded pairs, or with compatible tankmates (other medium cichlids, plecos, larger tetras, or silver dollars)

🔹 Tank Requirements

• Minimum tank size: 30 gallons (115 L) for one; 55+ gallons for a pair

• Temperature: 24–28 °C (75–82 °F)

• pH: 6.5–7.8

• Water hardness: Moderate

• Aquascape:

  • Provide caves, rocks, and driftwood for hiding and territory

  • Smooth décor to prevent mouth or fin damage

  • Avoid sharp objects and overcrowding

  • Moderate lighting and filtration

🔹 Diet

• Omnivorous: accepts flakes, pellets, frozen, and live foods

• Offer a varied diet — quality cichlid pellets, bloodworms, brine shrimp, and occasional vegetables

• High-quality colour-enhancing foods bring out their blue-white sheen

🔹 Breeding

• Can breed successfully (unlike pure Blood Parrots, which are often infertile)

• Form pairs naturally and display typical cichlid parenting behaviour

• Eggs are laid on flat rocks or cave surfaces

• Both parents guard and fan the eggs and fry

• Fry can be fed crushed flakes or baby brine shrimp

🔹 Care Notes

• Hardy and adaptable to most aquarium setups

• Keep water clean and well-oxygenated

• Avoid aggressive large cichlids or fin-nippers

• Lifespan: 8–10 years with proper care

✨ Key Features

• Hybrid of Blood Parrot and Convict Cichlid

• Icy blue or pearl-white coloration

• Smaller and hardier than Blood Parrots

• Can breed successfully

• Active, personable, and moderately territorial