Can Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Turquoise Rainbowfish Live Together?

🟢Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Turquoise Rainbowfish 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

Turquoise Rainbowfish

Melanotaenia lacustris

🐠Family Group
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Cichlids - African
Turquoise Rainbowfish
Rainbowfish
Temperament
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Semi-Aggressive (5/10)
Turquoise Rainbowfish
Peaceful (2/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
24–28°C
Turquoise Rainbowfish
20–25°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
7.5–8.6
Turquoise Rainbowfish
7–9
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
10–25
Turquoise Rainbowfish
10–25
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Freshwater Only
Turquoise Rainbowfish
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Moderate
Turquoise Rainbowfish
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 570 L
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
475 L
Turquoise Rainbowfish
160 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
MiddleBottom
Turquoise Rainbowfish
TopMiddle
🏷️Behavior Tags
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Digger (Disturbs Substrate)Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerAggressive to same species/look-alikes
Turquoise Rainbowfish
Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerJumper (Lid Required)Aggressive Eater (Starves shy fish)

Behaviour & Temperament

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

Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Turquoise Rainbowfish both frequent the Middle (Open Water) 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: Turquoise Rainbowfish 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 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 8.6. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 10–25 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Turquoise Rainbowfish 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), Plants - Densely covered, 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 Turquoise Rainbowfish live together?

Yes. Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Turquoise Rainbowfish 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 Turquoise Rainbowfish 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 Turquoise Rainbowfish 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 Turquoise Rainbowfish aggressive?

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

What pH do Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Turquoise Rainbowfish need?

Both species overlap in the 7.5–8.6 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.


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