Blue Polar Bear Parrot - 3cm

Species Profile: Blue Polar Bear Parrot Cichlid

• Scientific Name: Cichlasoma sp. (hybrid)
• Common Name: Blue Polar Bear Parrot Cichlid
• Adult Size: 6–8 inches (15–20 cm)
• Life Expectancy: 8–10 years with proper care
• Habitat: Captive-bred hybrid, not found in the wild. Originates from crossbreeding various cichlid species, typically kept in freshwater aquariums with rockwork and open swimming areas.

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 55 gallons (208 liters)
• Ideal Temperature: 76–82°F (24–28°C)
• pH Range: 6.5–7.5
• Water Hardness: 6–20 dGH
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive; can be territorial, especially during breeding. Best kept with similarly sized cichlids or robust tankmates.

Diet & Nutrition

• Yes. It accepts a wide range of foods, including high-quality cichlid pellets, flakes, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, and occasional vegetable matter. A varied diet enhances color and vitality.

Breeding & Spawning

• Breeding Difficulty: Difficult (most are sterile hybrids, but some individuals can breed)
• Spawning Type: Egg layers
• Breeding Behavior: They may show pairing and spawning behavior, clean a surface, and lay eggs, but eggs often fail to fertilize due to hybrid sterility. If successful, fry should be separated early due to possible aggression.
• Note: Breeding is unpredictable due to their hybrid nature.

Appearance

• Coloration: Vibrant yellow-orange body, with rounded shape and beak-like mouth
• Body Shape: Rounded, balloon-like body with a small mouth and large expressive eyes
• Fins: Flowing dorsal and caudal fins; often held high in a proud, graceful posture

Distinctive Features

• Hybrid of two Central American cichlids
• Iconic beak-shaped mouth with limited ability to fully close (creates a “smiling” appearance)
• Bright yellow coloration with a chunky, rounded body
• Social, intelligent, and interactive with keepers
• Can recognize owners and "beg" for food at the glass