African Cichlid: Blue Dolphin

Cyrtocara moorii

The Blue Dolphin Cichlid is a gorgeous species from Lake Malawi. These fish are not only beautiful but also active and engaging. They make a fantastic addition to medium or large aquariums, bringing energy and elegance to your tank.

Size and Lifespan

Blue Dolphin Cichlids grow to a size of 10 inches, with males being slightly larger and more vividly colored than females. With proper care, these hardy fish can live up to 7–10 years, providing long-term beauty and excitement in your aquarium.

Tank Size and Requirements

Like all haps and peacocks, they are more of a swimmer than rock dweller so they need plenty of swimming space! The recommended tank size for Taiwan Reefs that we suggest is 75 gallons! Use sand as the substrate and include rocks or caves to create hiding spots. This setup mimics their natural habitat and helps reduce stress. Keep the water between 76°F and 82°F. Frequent water changes and strong filtration is strongly suggested for optimal health.

Tank Mates

Blue Dolphin Cichlids are semi-aggressive but usually get along well with compatible fish. Suitable tank mates include other peaceful African cichlids, such as Peacocks and Haps. Avoid overly aggressive species or much smaller fish, as these could create tension. Adding plenty of hiding spots and ensuring enough space for all tank inhabitants helps maintain harmony in the aquarium.

Diet

African cichlids are big eaters. They always look hungry when approaching the tank. Good quality cichlid pellets should form the staple part of your fish’s diet. Frozen food such as brine shrimp and mysis shrimp are great to feed once or twice a week. Avoid feeding bloodworms as they are difficult for African cichlids to digest. While flakes are a great option for a tropical fish community tank, African cichlids need something more substantial and pellets are ideal.