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Golden Red Pearl Parrot Fish

Golden Red Pearl Parrot Fish

Posted by Max Gandara on on 29th Jun 2025

Golden Red Pearl Parrot Fish – A Unique Hybrid of Beauty and Boldness

The Golden Red Pearl Parrot Fish is a stunning hybrid that captures the best of both worlds—melding the charm and quirky personality of the Blood Parrot Cichlid with the vibrant color and head shape of the Flowerhorn. This hybrid cichlid is a favorite among hobbyists looking for something unique, colorful, and full of character.


? Origins of the Golden Red Pearl Hybrid

This fish is a cross between a Flowerhorn and a Blood Parrot Cichlid, both of which are man-made species bred for ornamental purposes. The Flowerhorn contributes intense coloration, kok (nuchal hump) development, and bold patterning, while the Blood Parrot adds its distinctive rounded body, beak-like mouth, and social nature.

The result? A spectacular fusion that stands out in any aquarium with its golden-red hues, pearlescent markings, and playful temperament.


? Appearance & Traits

The Golden Red Pearl Parrot Fish showcases a deep, rounded body with varying degrees of head development—some individuals even display a subtle kok reminiscent of their Flowerhorn parent. Their bodies shimmer with iridescent speckles, and many display intricate markings or "flower lines" across their flanks.

Key Physical Traits:

  • Bright gold, orange, and red coloration with metallic sheen

  • Slightly protruding forehead/kok

  • Rounded beak-like mouth, a trait of the Blood Parrot

  • Robust, stocky body with flowing fins


? Behavior and Personality

One of the most charming aspects of this hybrid is its interactive and curious personality. These fish are intelligent and responsive, often coming to the front of the tank to greet their owner or follow finger movements. They're generally bold but not overly aggressive, making them ideal for semi-aggressive or species-only tanks.

Behavioral Highlights:

  • Highly interactive and personable

  • Can show mild territorial behavior, especially during feeding

  • Thrives in tanks with hiding spots and open swimming space


? Aquarium Setup and Care Tips

Golden Red Pearl Parrots are relatively hardy but still benefit from a well-maintained aquarium environment. Due to their shape, they may not be the strongest swimmers, so avoid high flow setups.

Tank Requirements:

  • Tank size: 55 gallons minimum for a single fish

  • Temperature: 76–82°F

  • pH: 6.5–7.8

  • Decor: Smooth rocks, caves, and plenty of swimming space

  • Filtration: Strong biological filtration is recommended

Tank Mates: Best kept with other semi-aggressive cichlids or robust tank mates like Severums, Firemouths, or other Parrots. Avoid delicate or fin-nipping species.


? A Fish for the Enthusiast

Whether you’re a cichlid lover or just someone looking for a colorful and eye-catching fish with a big personality, the Golden Red Pearl Parrot Fish makes a bold addition to any aquarium. It’s not just a hybrid—it's a living showcase of ornamental cichlid breeding at its finest.