Can Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Yoyo Loach Live Together?

🟢Ideal Tank Mates

Yes, Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Yoyo Loach 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

Yoyo Loach

Botia almorhae

🐠Family Group
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Cichlids - African
Yoyo Loach
Loaches
Temperament
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Semi-Aggressive (5/10)
Yoyo Loach
Mostly Peaceful (4/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
24–28°C
Yoyo Loach
24–30°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
7.5–8.6
Yoyo Loach
6–7.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
10–25
Yoyo Loach
3–12
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Freshwater Only
Yoyo Loach
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Moderate
Yoyo Loach
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 570 L
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
475 L
Yoyo Loach
110 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 2 zones
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
MiddleBottom
Yoyo Loach
BottomMiddle
🏷️Behavior Tags
Blue Dolphin (Hap)
Digger (Disturbs Substrate)Hyperactive / Fast SwimmerAggressive to same species/look-alikes
Yoyo Loach
Snail EaterHyperactive / Fast SwimmerDigger (Disturbs Substrate)Fin NipperNocturnalSlime Coat Eater (Attacks Flat Fish)

Behaviour & Temperament

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

Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Yoyo Loach 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: Yoyo Loach is nocturnal and will be most active after lights-out, naturally reducing daytime encounters.

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 10–12 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

Tank Setup

To house Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Yoyo Loach 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), Plants - Densely 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 Yoyo Loach live together?

Yes. Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Yoyo Loach 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 Yoyo Loach 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 Yoyo Loach 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 Yoyo Loach aggressive?

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

What pH do Blue Dolphin (Hap) and Yoyo Loach 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.

Will Yoyo Loach nip Blue Dolphin (Hap)'s fins?

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

Does Yoyo Loach being nocturnal affect compatibility?

Yoyo Loach is most active after lights-out, which naturally reduces daytime encounters with its tank mate. This can actually be beneficial, as both fish get undisturbed time to feed and explore. Just ensure food reaches Yoyo Loach during evening hours.


Related Comparisons