According to aquarists, one of the most popular and beautiful aquarium fish is the cichlid parrot. In shape, these fish are elongated, slightly flattened laterally. The back is slightly arched, usually stronger than the bend of the belly. Coloring is the most diverse species, but often brownish-yellowish or light blue. The back is usually darker than the rest of the body, in the center of which often passes a wide dark or golden line. Color fins can vary from yellow to green, dorsal fins have a red edging.
The most famous subspecies of parrot fish has become a cichlid red parrot. It is believed that this species was bred in the 80s in Taiwan, but some argue that the fish were kept in the mouths of the Amazon. This variety of cichlids has a bright red or red color with a slight gradation of hue. In view of the artificial origin of the species, parrots have difficulties with nutrition. Fish need to pick up very small fodder, since their mouth is very small and only passes through carefully crushed food.
The content of the cichlid parrot
Cichlids usually live in pairs. For two pairs there is enough aquarium for 60 liters. Experienced aquarists immediately colonize about 10 fish, after which the division into pairs. Excesses are resettled in separate aquariums. Cichlid parrot has a high compatibility with almost all species.
Fish need to recreate the natural environment, for which the aquarium needs to be equipped with caves, pebbles and plants. As a bottom, you can use soft soil , as some of them are very fond of digging burrows under the rocks. Cichlids like water at room temperature, which must be regularly changed and filtered.
Reproduction of the cichlid parrot
To start the pairing process it is necessary to raise the temperature by 2-3 degrees and add one fifth of fresh water. Once a couple is about to spawn, they begin to prepare their cave for offspring. This preparation is the preparation of a place for caviar in a cave, and at this time as a male guarding the territory around. At the end of training, the female lures the partner into the cave, after which she spawns. At a time, about 200-300 small eggs are released, 2 mm in size. A couple of cichlids may start eating eggs, but this behavior quickly passes. After 2-4 days small fish are born, and a week later they leave the cave under the protection of adults. Sexual maturity of parrots begins in 10-12 months.