Can Blood Parrot Cichlid live with Discus?
High risk due to water mismatch, aggression, or predation.
Why Blood Parrot Cichlid and Discus Don't Make an Easy Pair
There is no temperature overlap — Blood Parrot Cichlid needs 76-82°F while Discus needs 82-86°F. One of them will be outside its safe range constantly, which leads to chronic stress and disease.
Blood Parrot Cichlid
Amphilophus hybrid (crossbreed)
| Adult Size: | 8.0" |
| Temperament: | semi-aggressive |
| Min Tank: | 30 gal |
| Temperature: | 76-82°F |
| pH Range: | 6.5-7.5 |
Discus
Symphysodon aequifasciatus
| Adult Size: | 8.0" |
| Temperament: | peaceful |
| Min Tank: | 55 gal |
| Temperature: | 82-86°F |
| pH Range: | 6.0-7.0 |
Water Parameter Overlap
| Parameter | Blood Parrot Cichlid | Discus | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 76-82°F | 82-86°F | No overlap ✗ |
| pH | 6.5-7.5 | 6.0-7.0 | 0.5 ✓ |
Compatibility Breakdown
Temperament Match: semi-aggressive + peaceful. Semi-aggressive → watch territory and feeding.
Score: 30.0/100 (GOOD ≥80, CAUTION ≥50, RISKY <50).
🔧 Tank Setup Requirements (for Both)
- Minimum tank: 55 gallons — sized for the larger fish in the pair.
- Temperature: no safe overlap range exists. A heater is not enough to fix this pairing.
- pH: maintain 6.5 – 7.0.
- Hiding spots: essential for Blood Parrot Cichlid — caves, plants, or driftwood to retreat when feeling stressed.
- Water changes: 25% weekly minimum. Two species mean double the bioload.
🔧 Tank Stocking Calculator
Enter tank size to calculate safe stocking levels:
Recommended Equipment
Based on tank size 55+ gallons:
Premium canister filter for discus tanks
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Accuracy note: This tool uses expert rules + FishBase.org data. Individual fish behavior varies — a semi-aggressive individual Blood Parrot Cichlid may act differently from its species average. Always observe, quarantine new arrivals for 2-4 weeks, and avoid overcrowding. If a pairing says CAUTION, start with a smaller group and a lid.