Blue Dolphin Cichlid (Cyrtocara moorii)

About the Blue Dolphin Cichlid

The Blue Dolphin Cichlid (Cyrtocara moorii) is a captivating African cichlid known for its vibrant blue coloration and distinctive dolphin-like head hump, especially prominent in males as they mature. They are relatively peaceful, though males can be territorial, and they are found in Lake Malawi. They are mouthbrooders, with females holding the eggs and fry in their mouths for protection. This species needs a sand substrate and rockwork towards the edges and back of the aquarium. Blue Dolphin Cichlids can be flighty at times and potentially injure themselves in a rock-filled aquarium.

Husbandry & Care

Temperament: Peaceful

Minimum Tank Size: 75 Gallons

Water Temperature: 77-84 °F

Water pH: 7.5-8.8

Social Group: 2-3 females per male fish

Diet: Carnivorous; high protein commercial flakes, frozen brine shrimp/bloodworms

Compatible with: Frontosa, Synodontis, and large, peaceful Hap Cichlids