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Am.citrinellus x P.synspilus, also called Yellow Parrot, is an aquarium hybrid associated with Central American cichlid lineages. Its tall body, unusual mouth and bright yellow coloration make it a striking fish for a large aquarium. Like several parrot-type hybrids, its appearance can vary according to the breeding line and age. It should be kept as a large, sturdy and territorial cichlid, rather than as an ordinary community fish. Its availability is moderate, corresponding to an intermediate rarity level in the aquarium trade.

General species description

Am.citrinellus x P.synspilus is a commercial hybrid associated with Cichlidae, produced from Amphilophus citrinellus and Paraneetroplus synspilus. It is therefore not a wild species with its own natural range. Individuals often have a stocky body, a rounded head and a relatively small mouth, with considerable variation between fish. Their behavior remains typical of a large cichlid: they actively explore the aquarium, defend particular areas and may move gravel or light decorations. A spacious aquarium, strong filtration and firmly secured decorations are essential. Despite its sometimes calm appearance, this fish can become territorial as an adult and should be monitored carefully with tank mates.

Geographical origin and habitat

Reference countries: no single country, because Am.citrinellus x P.synspilus is a captive-produced hybrid rather than a natural population. Its parent species are associated with Central America, including lake and river basins in Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Guatemala, depending on the parental lines. These habitats include slow to moderately flowing water, rocky or sandy margins and areas filled with wood, roots and vegetation. In aquaria, the goal should be a Central American cichlid environment rather than an exact biotope: open swimming space, visual barriers and **neutral to slightly alkaline water**. Water quality and stability matter more than an exact botanical imitation.

Precise location and local name

There is no precise wild location for Am.citrinellus x P.synspilus, because this fish is sold as a hybrid form produced in captivity. The most widely used commercial name in English is Yellow Parrot. In French-speaking aquarium stores, names such as « perroquet jaune » or « parrot jaune » may also be used. These terms describe a commercial form and are not an official scientific name. The breeding line may influence body shape, adult size and the intensity of the yellow coloration. To avoid confusion, it is best to list the hybrid formula Amphilophus citrinellus × Paraneetroplus synspilus in care sheets and sales listings.

Appearance and physical characteristics

Yellow to yellow-orange coloration is generally dominant, but its intensity may change with age, lighting, diet and overall condition. The body is tall and compact, while the head appears rounded. The relatively small mouth with thick lips is a typical feature of parrot forms; it can limit the fish’s ability to grasp large prey. The dorsal and anal fins are fairly long and may show orange or reddish tones. Adult size depends on the strain and growing conditions, but a well-developed specimen may reach approximately **25 to 30 cm**. Very stocky forms may swim less efficiently and therefore require a safe layout without sharp edges, along with plenty of open swimming space.

General diet

Am.citrinellus x P.synspilus is omnivorous and usually accepts commercial foods made for large cichlids. The staple diet can include quality sinking pellets, supplemented with frozen foods such as shrimp, krill or bloodworms. A plant component, such as algae-enriched pellets or small amounts of blanched vegetables, helps provide variety. It is better to offer small portions once or twice daily than to overfeed a fast-growing fish. Very fatty foods and excessive protein can encourage obesity and pollute the water. Because of its unusual mouth, use appropriately sized pellets and offer **easy-to-swallow meals**, avoiding prey that is too large.

Essential data

• Name of original river: —
• Local name used: Yellow Parrot; perroquet jaune; parrot jaune
• Origin of the scientific name: Hybrid formula combining Amphilophus citrinellus and Paraneetroplus synspilus
• Complete-name etymology: Amphilophus comes from Greek and refers to a marked lip or border; citrinellus means yellowish or lemon-colored; Paraneetroplus suggests a relationship with the genus Neetroplus; synspilus refers to joined or closely placed spots.
• Common/vernacular names: Yellow Parrot; perroquet jaune; parrot jaune
• Family: Cichlidae
• Subfamily: Cichlinae
• Name pronunciation: am-fee-lo-fus sit-ri-nel-lus - pa-ra-nee-tro-plus sin-spi-lus
• Discovery: Commercial hybrid; no zoological discovery by a specific person is assigned to this form
• Maximum adult size: approximately 25 to 30 cm
• Water temperature and pH: 24 to 28 °C; pH 7.0 to 8.2
• Appearance of the waterway and surrounding vegetation: Slow to moderately flowing water, rocky or sandy margins, wood and vegetation along the banks
• Typical tank mates: Large Central American cichlids of comparable size; peaceful large catfish; sturdy non-territorial fish; adult hardy snails
• Temperament and behavior: Active, territorial and sometimes aggressive, especially during breeding
• Water depth: Shallow to medium-depth littoral zones
• Sexual dimorphism: Difficult to establish in hybrids; adult males may be larger and more territorial
• Bottom structure and flow: Sand or fine gravel, rocks and shelters; low to moderate flow

In your aquarium

Success begins with a large, well-filtered aquarium furnished with stable rocks, sturdy roots and several visual barriers. Avoid delicate plants, which may be uprooted or chewed. Keep the temperature stable at **24 to 28 °C**, maintain neutral to alkaline water and provide excellent oxygenation. Tank mates must be selected carefully, since an adult may intimidate or injure smaller fish. A varied diet, regular water changes and open swimming space support good condition. Pay particular attention to the mouth, breathing and territorial interactions. With suitable filtration and a durable layout, this **unusual hybrid cichlid** can become a spectacular centerpiece fish.