Can Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Siamese Algae Eater Live Together?

🟢Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Siamese Algae Eater 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

Siamese Algae Eater

Crossocheilus oblongus

🐠Family Group
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Cichlids - African
Siamese Algae Eater
Cyprinids
Temperament
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Semi-Aggressive (5/10)
Siamese Algae Eater
Mostly Peaceful (3/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
24–28°C
Siamese Algae Eater
22–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
7.5–8.6
Siamese Algae Eater
6–7.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
10–25
Siamese Algae Eater
5–15
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Freshwater Only
Siamese Algae Eater
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Moderate
Siamese Algae Eater
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 570 L
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
475 L
Siamese Algae Eater
110 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 2 zones
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
MiddleBottom
Siamese Algae Eater
BottomMiddle
🏷️Behavior Tags
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Digger (Disturbs Substrate)Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerAggressive to same species/look-alikes
Siamese Algae Eater
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerJumper (Lid Required)Aggressive Eater (Starves shy fish)Territorial (Defends specific area)

Behaviour & Temperament

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

Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Siamese Algae Eater 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.

Worth noting: Siamese Algae Eater is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

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 Siamese Algae Eater 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), Established Algae (Otocinclus), Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding), Plants - lighly covered. 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 Siamese Algae Eater live together?

Yes. Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Siamese Algae Eater 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 Siamese Algae Eater 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 Siamese Algae Eater 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 Siamese Algae Eater aggressive?

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

What pH do Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Siamese Algae Eater 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 Siamese Algae Eater's territorial behaviour?

Provide line-of-sight breaks using rocks, driftwood, and dense planting. A larger tank gives Siamese Algae Eater 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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