Can Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Rosy Barb Live Together?

🟢Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Rosy Barb 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

Blue Dolphin (Hap)

Cyrtocara moorii

Rosy Barb

Pethia conchonius

🐠Family Group
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Cichlids - African
Rosy Barb
Cyprinids
Temperament
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Semi-Aggressive (5/10)
Rosy Barb
Mostly Peaceful (3/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
24–28°C
Rosy Barb
18–25°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
7.5–8.6
Rosy Barb
6–8
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
10–25
Rosy Barb
4–15
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Freshwater Only
Rosy Barb
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Moderate
Rosy Barb
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 570 L
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
475 L
Rosy Barb
110 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 2 zones
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
MiddleBottom
Rosy Barb
MiddleBottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Digger (Disturbs Substrate)Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerAggressive to same species/look-alikes
Rosy Barb
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerFin NipperAggressive Eater (Starves shy fish)Plant Destroyer

Behaviour & Temperament

Blue Dolphin (Hap) is a moderately assertive species (5/10), while Rosy Barb is generally mild-mannered (3/10). This modest difference means Blue Dolphin (Hap) may occasionally assert dominance over Rosy Barb.

Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Rosy Barb 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 10–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Rosy Barb 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 moderate (standard) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Rosy Barb live together?

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

What size tank do Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Rosy Barb 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 Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Rosy Barb 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 Blue Dolphin (Hap) or Rosy Barb aggressive?

Blue Dolphin (Hap) is moderately assertive (5/10) and Rosy Barb is generally mild-mannered (3/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.

What pH do Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Rosy Barb 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 Rosy Barb nip Blue Dolphin (Hap)'s fins?

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


Related Comparisons