Want your cichlid tank to be cleaner, healthier, and less work? Discover how to set up a self-sustaining aquarium with Aquaponics 4 You. This easy-to-follow system shows you how to naturally balance fish and plants—making maintenance easier and improving fish health.
Introduction
The Polar Blue Parrot Cichlid is a stunning and relatively new addition to the freshwater hobby. Known for its round body, glowing blue coloration, and peaceful temperament, it’s a hybrid fish that brings character and color to any cichlid tank. These fish are ideal for intermediate hobbyists looking for a semi-aggressive yet compatible species that works well in community or species-only setups.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about Polar Blue Parrot Cichlids—including origin, care requirements, feeding habits, behavior, and ideal tank mates.
What Is a Polar Blue Parrot Cichlid?
The Polar Blue Parrot Cichlid is a hybrid between a Blood Parrot Cichlid and a Convict Cichlid. This fusion creates a compact, oval-shaped fish with the signature beak-like mouth of parrots and the iridescent coloration of convicts. They’re also sometimes called Polar Parrot Convicts or Polar Blue Convict Hybrids.
Quick Facts:
- Scientific Name: Hybrid (Blood Parrot x Convict)
- Size: 4 to 8 inches (usually around 6 inches)
- Temperament: Semi-aggressive
- Life Span: 8 to 10 years with proper care
- Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons for a pair
- Water Parameters: 74–80°F, pH 6.5–7.5, medium hardness
Appearance and Behavior
Polar Blue Parrots have a unique look: a rounded, stocky body with a protruding forehead and small, rounded fins. Their colors are vibrant—icy blue, silver, and hints of purple under proper lighting. They shimmer beautifully and are often the focal point in any cichlid tank.
Behavior Traits:
- Generally peaceful with their own kind
- Can be territorial, especially when spawning
- Show more confidence in groups or with hiding spots
- Smart and social—may recognize owners
Tank Setup for Polar Blue Parrot Cichlids
1. Tank Size
A single Polar Blue Parrot needs at least a 30-gallon tank, but for pairs or community settings, go with 55 gallons or more. They like room to explore and establish their own space.
2. Substrate and Decor
- Use soft sand or smooth gravel
- Include rocks, driftwood, and ceramic caves for shelter
- Leave open swimming areas in the middle
3. Filtration
Use a canister or hang-on-back filter rated for at least one size up from your tank. Cichlids are messy eaters, and a strong filter helps maintain water quality.
4. Heating and Lighting
- Maintain a steady 76–78°F temperature
- Use LED lighting to bring out their blue hues
5. Water Conditions
- pH: 6.8–7.4
- Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
- Nitrates: Below 20 ppm
Feeding Your Polar Blue Parrots
These cichlids are omnivores, meaning they eat both protein and plant-based foods. In captivity, they’re not picky and will readily accept a variety of foods.
Diet Tips:
- Pellets formulated for cichlids (main staple)
- Frozen or live foods: bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia
- Blanched vegetables: spinach, peas, zucchini
- Feed 1–2 times per day, only what they can eat in 2–3 minutes
Ideal Tank Mates
Polar Blue Parrots are semi-aggressive but not as combative as many other cichlids. They can co-exist peacefully with similarly sized, non-aggressive fish that won’t nip or harass them.
Good Tank Mates:
- Angelfish
- Rainbowfish
- Silver Dollars
- Peaceful Plecos (Bristlenose)
- Firemouth Cichlids
Tank Mates to Avoid:
- Small community fish (guppies, tetras, etc.)
- Highly aggressive cichlids (Jack Dempseys, Oscars)
- Fin nippers (Barbs, certain Danios)
Breeding Polar Blue Parrots
These fish do pair up and lay eggs, but due to their hybrid genetics, success rates can vary. Males are often fertile (unlike Blood Parrots), and they do exhibit nesting behavior and parental care.
Breeding Conditions:
- Provide a flat stone or ceramic dish for spawning
- Raise temperature to 78–80°F
- Feed high-protein foods to encourage breeding
Eggs typically hatch in 2–3 days, and both parents guard the fry. If breeding in a community tank, consider removing fry after hatching to protect them.
Mid-Article Tip: Want a More Balanced Cichlid Tank?
Aquaponics 4 You offers a fresh way to manage your aquarium. Let plants naturally filter water and reduce toxins, creating a cleaner, more stable home for cichlids like Polar Blue Parrots. No more frequent water changes or harsh chemicals!
Common Health Issues
Polar Blue Parrots are hardy, but like all fish, they’re vulnerable to poor water quality and stress.
Watch for:
- Ich (white spots on skin and fins)
- Hole-in-the-head disease (linked to poor nutrition and water)
- Fin rot or fungal infections (often stress-related)
Prevent problems with regular maintenance, varied diet, and clean water.
Maintenance Tips
- Change 25% of water weekly
- Use a gravel vacuum during water changes
- Test water weekly for ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates
- Clean filter media monthly in tank water (not tap)
Conclusion: A Beautiful Hybrid With Personality
The Polar Blue Parrot Cichlid offers color, charm, and manageable care needs, making it an excellent addition for intermediate and experienced aquarists alike. With proper setup and thoughtful tank mates, this fish can thrive in a community or species-only environment while brightening up any tank.
Make Your Cichlid Tank Easier to Maintain—Naturally
If you’re tired of constant cleaning and battling algae, it’s time to build a tank that works with nature. Aquaponics 4 You shows you how to use fish and plants together for a clean, healthy ecosystem. Fewer water changes. Happier fish. Try it today!