Blood Parrot Cichlids are peaceful, quirky, and a little clumsy which makes choosing the right tank mates extra important. While they’re not aggressive, their odd swimming style and unique mouth shape can make them vulnerable in the wrong community. Some fish may bully them, outcompete them for food, or simply stress them out.
In this guide, we’ll help you build the perfect tank community by covering the best tank mates for Blood Parrots, which species to avoid, and tips for peaceful cohabitation.
Blood Parrot Behavior in Community Tanks
Temperament
Blood Parrot Cichlids are known for being semi-aggressive but mostly peaceful, especially when kept in the right tank conditions. They tend to be shy at first but become more social and interactive once they settle in. During feeding or breeding, they can get a bit territorial, especially in small tanks.
Why Compatibility Matters
Their round bodies and small, deformed mouths make them poor swimmers and feeders. Fish that are too fast, aggressive, or competitive at mealtime can easily stress out or outpace Blood Parrots. That’s why careful selection of tank mates is key to their long-term well-being.
Best Blood Parrot Tank Mates (By Type)
Here are species that are peaceful, compatible, and thrive in similar water conditions.
1. Silver Dollar Fish
Silver Dollars are calm, schooling fish that add movement and balance to the tank. They rarely bother other fish and are fast enough to avoid conflict. Keep them in groups of five or more in a spacious tank (at least 75 gallons).
2. Severum Cichlids
These large, mellow cichlids are a great match for Blood Parrots. They share similar water parameters and temperament, though you’ll need at least a 75-gallon tank if keeping both.
3. Angelfish
Angelfish and Blood Parrots both have slow, graceful swimming styles and get along in many setups. Just be cautious during breeding periods Angels can become territorial.
Read more: 31 Peaceful Community Fish for Freshwater Aquariums
4. Clown Loaches
Clown Loaches are playful, bottom-dwelling fish that won’t compete for space or food. They also help clean up leftovers, which is handy since Blood Parrots are messy eaters. Keep them in groups of at least three.
5. Rainbowfish
Rainbowfish are fast swimmers, but their peaceful nature and bright colors make them ideal companions. They add life to the tank and usually stay out of the way.
6. Bristlenose Plecos
These peaceful algae eaters keep to themselves and do a great job of cleaning the tank. Just avoid larger species like Common Plecos, which can grow too large and become territorial.
Species to Avoid with Blood Parrot Cichlids
While Blood Parrots are generally friendly, some fish just don’t make good roommates.
Aggressive or Territorial Fish
Avoid large, aggressive cichlids that may intimidate or harm Blood Parrots:
- Oscar Cichlids
- Jack Dempseys
- Green Terrors
- Flowerhorns
Fin Nippers and Fast Fish
Blood Parrots have soft fins and can be targets for nippy or hyperactive species. Avoid:
- Tiger Barbs
- Serpae Tetras
- Zebra Danios
- Bettas
Small Fish and Invertebrates
Blood Parrots might not be hunters, but they can accidentally eat small fish or shrimp:
- Guppies, Endlers, Neon Tetras
- Cherry Shrimp and small snails
General Tank Mate Guidelines
Match Temperament
Always choose peaceful or semi-aggressive species. Fish that are known to be aggressive or highly territorial should be avoided.
Match Size
Ideal tank mates should be at least 4–6 inches long. Anything smaller can be seen as food, while anything too large may dominate the tank.
Tank Size and Setup
A community tank for Blood Parrots and friends should be at least 55 gallons, with larger tanks preferred if you’re adding multiple species. Use decor like driftwood, caves, and rocks to create breaks in line of sight.
➡️ Learn more: Aquascaping for Beginners: Complete Guide to Plants, Styles & Setup
Compatibility Table
| Fish Species | Compatibility | Notes |
| Silver Dollar Fish | Excellent | Peaceful, active schooling fish |
| Severum Cichlid | Good | Needs space and gentle tankmates |
| Angelfish | Good | Territorial only when breeding |
| Clown Loach | Excellent | Great bottom-dweller companions |
| Rainbowfish | Excellent | Fast but non-aggressive |
| Bristlenose Pleco | Excellent | Algae eater, stays out of the way |
| Oscar Cichlid | Poor | Too aggressive and dominant |
| Tiger Barb | Poor | Known fin-nippers |
| Guppies | Poor | Easily eaten or harassed |
FAQs
Can Blood Parrots live with other cichlids?
Yes, but only with peaceful types like Severums or Keyhole Cichlids. Avoid aggressive species.
Will Blood Parrots eat smaller fish?
They might. While they’re not aggressive hunters, they can accidentally swallow small fish like guppies or neon tetras.
Can I keep multiple Blood Parrots together?
Yes, but give them plenty of space 55 gallons minimum for a pair, and more for groups. Watch for dominance issues.
Are shrimp or snails safe with Blood Parrots?
Usually not. Shrimp are likely to be eaten, and snails may be harassed or flipped over.
Can I add tank mates later?
Yes, but quarantine them first and monitor interactions closely. Rearranging tank decor before adding new fish can help reduce territorial behavior.
