Can Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Severum Live Together?

🟢Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Severum 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

Severum

Heros severus

🐠Family Group
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Cichlids - African
Severum
Cichlids - South American
Temperament
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Semi-Aggressive (5/10)
Severum
Semi-Aggressive (5/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
24–28°C
Severum
24–29°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
7.5–8.6
Severum
6–7.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
10–25
Severum
4–15
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Freshwater Only
Severum
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Moderate
Severum
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 570 L
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
475 L
Severum
280 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 2 zones
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
MiddleBottom
Severum
MiddleBottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Digger (Disturbs Substrate)Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerAggressive to same species/look-alikes
Severum
Plant DestroyerTerritorial (Defends specific area)Digger (Disturbs Substrate)

Behaviour & Temperament

Both Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Severum are moderately assertive species with an aggression score of 5/10. Their matching temperaments mean neither fish is likely to dominate the other in a shared aquarium.

Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Severum 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 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 7.5. 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 Severum 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), Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding). 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 Severum live together?

Yes. Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Severum 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 Severum 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 Severum 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 Blue Dolphin (Hap) or Severum aggressive?

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

What pH do Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Severum need?

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

How do I manage Severum's territorial behaviour?

Provide line-of-sight breaks using rocks, driftwood, and dense planting. A larger tank gives Severum space to claim a territory without encroaching on the other fish's area. Adding décor that divides the tank into distinct zones works especially well.


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