Can Blind Cave Tetra and Blue Dolphin (Hap) Live Together?

🟢Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Blind Cave Tetra 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

Blind Cave Tetra

Astyanax mexicanus

Blue Dolphin (Hap)

Cyrtocara moorii

🐠Family Group
Blind Cave Tetra
Characins
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Cichlids - African
Temperament
Blind Cave Tetra
Mostly Peaceful (4/10)
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Semi-Aggressive (5/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Blind Cave Tetra
20–25°C
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
24–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Blind Cave Tetra
6.5–8
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
7.5–8.6
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Blind Cave Tetra
8–20
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
10–25
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Blind Cave Tetra
Freshwater Only
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Blind Cave Tetra
Moderate
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 570 L
Blind Cave Tetra
110 L
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
475 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 2 zones
Blind Cave Tetra
MiddleBottom
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
MiddleBottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Blind Cave Tetra
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerFin NipperAggressive Eater (Starves shy fish)
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Digger (Disturbs Substrate)Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerAggressive to same species/look-alikes

Behaviour & Temperament

Blind Cave Tetra is a generally mild-mannered species (4/10), while Blue Dolphin (Hap) is moderately assertive (5/10). This modest difference means Blue Dolphin (Hap) may occasionally assert dominance over Blind Cave Tetra.

Blind Cave Tetra and Blue Dolphin (Hap) both frequent the Middle (Open Water) and 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 25°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 24.5°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 10–20 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range. An aquarium test kit is recommended for monitoring.

Tank Setup

To house Blind Cave Tetra 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: Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels), Sand (Sifters). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

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

Find the right tank equipment

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can Blind Cave Tetra and Blue Dolphin (Hap) live together?

Yes. Blind Cave Tetra 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 Blind Cave Tetra 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 Blind Cave Tetra and Blue Dolphin (Hap) together?

Keep the aquarium between 24°C and 25°C. A target of around 24.5°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Blind Cave Tetra or Blue Dolphin (Hap) aggressive?

Blind Cave Tetra is generally mild-mannered (4/10) and Blue Dolphin (Hap) is moderately assertive (5/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Blind Cave Tetra 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.

Will Blind Cave Tetra nip Blue Dolphin (Hap)'s fins?

Blind Cave Tetra is a known fin nipper. If Blue Dolphin (Hap) has long or flowing fins, there is a real risk of fin damage. Keeping Blind Cave Tetra in a larger group can help redirect nipping behaviour toward conspecifics.


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