Can Assassin Snail and Blue Dolphin (Hap) Live Together?

🟢Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Assassin Snail and Blue Dolphin (Hap) are ideal tank mates. Both species share compatible water parameters and peaceful temperaments, making them well-suited for a community aquarium. A minimum tank size of 570 litres is recommended.


At a Glance

Assassin Snail

Clea helena

Blue Dolphin (Hap)

Cyrtocara moorii

🐠Family Group
Assassin Snail
Invertebrates
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Cichlids - African
Temperament
Assassin Snail
Peaceful (2/10)
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Semi-Aggressive (5/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Assassin Snail
22–28°C
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
24–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Assassin Snail
7–8
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
7.5–8.6
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Assassin Snail
8–15
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
10–25
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Assassin Snail
Freshwater Only
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Assassin Snail
Low
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 570 L
Assassin Snail
10 L
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
475 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Assassin Snail
Bottom
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
MiddleBottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Assassin Snail
Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk)Snail EaterDigger (Disturbs Substrate)
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Digger (Disturbs Substrate)Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerAggressive to same species/look-alikes

Behaviour & Temperament

Assassin Snail is a peaceful species (2/10), while Blue Dolphin (Hap) is moderately assertive (5/10). This modest difference means Blue Dolphin (Hap) may occasionally assert dominance over Assassin Snail.

Assassin Snail and Blue Dolphin (Hap) both frequent the Bottom (Substrate) region of the setup. This overlap can increase competition for space, so providing ample room and cover is important to keep both species comfortable.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 24°C and 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 26.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 7.5 and 8. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 10–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Assassin Snail and Blue Dolphin (Hap) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 570 litres with a minimum length of 150 cm. This accounts for the larger species' space requirements with an additional 20 % buffer to reduce territorial tension.

Providing a mix of open swimming space and sheltered areas with rocks, driftwood, or plants will keep both species comfortable and allow natural behaviour.

Specific environmental needs for this combination include: Sand (Sifters), Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Both species do well with low (still water) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Assassin Snail and Blue Dolphin (Hap) live together?

Yes. Assassin Snail and Blue Dolphin (Hap) are considered ideal tank mates. Their water parameters, temperaments, and behaviour profiles are well matched for a community aquarium.

What size tank do Assassin Snail and Blue Dolphin (Hap) need?

A minimum of 570 litres (tank length at least 150 cm) is recommended. This provides enough space for both species to establish their own areas and reduces the likelihood of territorial disputes.

What water temperature is best for Assassin Snail and Blue Dolphin (Hap) together?

Keep the aquarium between 24°C and 28°C. A target of around 26.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Assassin Snail or Blue Dolphin (Hap) aggressive?

Assassin Snail is peaceful (2/10) and Blue Dolphin (Hap) is moderately assertive (5/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Assassin Snail and Blue Dolphin (Hap) need?

Both species overlap in the 7.5–8 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.


Related Comparisons