Albino Polar Parrot | 3-4cms | Single

The Albino Polar Parrot Cichlid is a color morph of the Polar Blue Parrot Cichlid, a hybrid species known for its distinctive beak-like mouth and vibrant coloration. The albino variety features a pale, almost translucent body with a soft pinkish hue, along with red eyes. Like other parrot cichlids, the Albino Polar Parrot Cichlid is a hybrid, typically resulting from the cross between a midas cichlid and a blood parrot cichlid. It is a peaceful, visually striking fish popular among aquarium enthusiasts.
Key Characteristics
Scientific Name: Hybrid (commonly referred to as Parrot Cichlid)
Size: 8–10 inches (20–25 cm)
Lifespan: 10–15 years with proper care
Coloration:
The Albino Polar Parrot Cichlid has a pale, almost white or pinkish body with a soft iridescent sheen.
Its eyes are bright red, a typical feature of albino cichlid varieties.
The fish's body is rounded with a characteristic "beak-like" mouth, which is common in hybrid parrot cichlids.
Shape:
The body is compact and round, with smooth, flowing fins and a distinctive face shape that gives it a unique appearance.
Temperament:
Generally peaceful compared to other cichlids but can be territorial during breeding.
It may show some aggression if it feels its space is threatened, especially in smaller tanks or if stressed.
Tank Level:
Primarily a middle to bottom dweller, though it will explore all areas of the tank when it feels secure.
Water Parameters
Temperature: 76–82°F (24–28°C)
pH: 6.5–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Hardness: 8–12 dGH
Water Quality:
Clean, well-filtered water is crucial to prevent disease and ensure the health of the fish.
Regular water changes (at least 25% per week) are recommended.
Tank Setup
Tank Size:
A minimum of 30 gallons for a single Albino Polar Parrot Cichlid is recommended, though larger tanks (40–55 gallons) are ideal for multiple fish or a more peaceful setup.
Substrate:
Fine gravel or sand is suitable for these fish. Avoid using sharp-edged gravel that could potentially injure the fish.
Decor and Plants:
The Albino Polar Parrot Cichlid enjoys having hiding spots, so include rocks, caves, and driftwood.
Live plants such as Java Fern and Anubias can be added, though the fish may dig around the roots.
Filtration:
A strong filtration system is essential due to the fish's waste production. Ensure moderate water flow to avoid stress.
Lighting:
Moderate lighting works best. Avoid excessively bright lighting, as it can stress the fish.
Diet
Type: Omnivorous
Preferred Foods:
High-quality pellets, flakes, or cichlid-specific food.
Live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia.
Vegetables such as spinach, peas, and spirulina can be offered occasionally.
Feeding Tips:
Feed 2–3 times per day in small amounts. Avoid overfeeding to maintain water quality.
Behavior and Tank Mates
Behavior:
The Albino Polar Parrot Cichlid is relatively peaceful but can become territorial, especially during breeding.
It may become more aggressive if its space is invaded, so providing ample room is important.
Suitable Tank Mates:
Peaceful, non-aggressive species such as other cichlids (avoid overly aggressive types), catfish (like Corydoras), and larger peaceful species like rainbowfish.
Avoid small or fast-moving fish that may be seen as food or may irritate the cichlid.
Breeding
Difficulty: Moderate
Breeding Setup:
The Albino Polar Parrot Cichlid is a mouthbrooder, where the female carries the fertilized eggs in her mouth until they hatch.
Provide flat surfaces for the female to lay eggs. After hatching, the female will keep the fry in her mouth for protection until they are strong enough to swim on their own.
Fry Care:
Offer foods like baby brine shrimp or finely crushed flakes.
The parents are protective of their young but should be monitored for aggression towards tankmates.
Care Tips
Regular Water Changes: Maintain clean water by performing regular water changes to ensure the fish stays healthy.
Monitor Aggression: While the Albino Polar Parrot Cichlid is generally peaceful, it can become territorial or aggressive during breeding or if it feels threatened.
Provide Hiding Spots: Ensure that there are plenty of caves, rocks, or plants to offer the fish refuge if needed.
Space: Avoid overcrowding in the tank, as these fish can become stressed in cramped environments.
Why Choose the Albino Polar Parrot Cichlid?
Striking Coloration: The bright, pale pink and iridescent sheen, combined with red eyes, makes this fish stand out in any tank.
Unique Appearance: With its characteristic beak-like mouth and rounded body, the Albino Polar Parrot is a fascinating and attractive fish.
Peaceful Nature: Compared to other cichlids, the Albino Polar Parrot is relatively peaceful and can be kept with other non-aggressive fish.
Hybrid Resilience: Like most hybrid cichlids, the Albino Polar Parrot is hardy and adaptable to various aquarium conditions, making it a great option for intermediate-level aquarists.
Conclusion
The Albino Polar Parrot Cichlid is a unique and beautiful fish that adds a pop of color and interest to any aquarium. With its striking pale body and red eyes, it is an eye-catching choice for those who want a peaceful yet hardy fish. While it can be territorial during breeding or when feeling threatened, it is a generally calm species that does well in community tanks with other non-aggressive fish. With proper care, the Albino Polar Parrot can thrive and provide years of enjoyment to aquarium hobbyists.