A striking blue Lake Malawi Haplochromine cichlid famous for the pronounced nuchal hump (head bump) that develops in mature adults, resembling a dolphin. They are benthopelagic micro-predators that naturally follow digging fish in the wild to catch stirred-up morsels. While relatively peaceful for an African Cichlid, they grow very large and require extensive swimming space and hard, alkaline water.
At a Glance
Tank Requirements
Water Parameters
Temperament & Compatibility
Available Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Adult Male
Mature males develop a massive, iconic nuchal hump on the forehead and brilliant light blue coloration. Best kept as a single male with multiple females (harem) or in a carefully balanced all-male Hap/Peacock setup.
Differs in 3 traits from base species
Also known as: Show Male, Bull
Adult Female
Females are slightly smaller and generally lack the massive nuchal hump, though they retain the beautiful blue coloration of the species. Significantly more peaceful than males.
Differs in 2 traits from base species
Also known as: Female Hap
Juvenile (Grow-out)
Young Blue Dolphins are silvery-blue with dark blotchy spots and lack the head hump entirely. They grow quickly and will eventually require a 125+ gallon aquarium.
Differs in 5 traits from base species
Also known as: Baby, Unsexed
Blue Dolphin (Hap) Care Summary
The Blue Dolphin (Hap), scientifically known as Cyrtocara moorii, belongs to the Cichlids - African family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 25 cm and have a compressed body shape with a moderate growth rate. Classified as semi-aggressive, this species primarily occupies the mid-level and bottom zones of the aquarium and produces a high level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Blue Dolphin (Hap) requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 475 litres and a tank length of at least 150 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 24°C and 28°C, with a pH range of 7.5–8.6 and a general hardness of 10–25 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred. To replicate their natural habitat, the tank should include sand (sifters) and smooth gravel (sensitive barbels).
Blue Dolphin (Hap) can be kept singly or in a group, making them flexible additions to most setups. Keepers should be aware that this species can be aggressive toward its own kind. This species is available in 3 varieties: Adult Male, Adult Female, and Juvenile (Grow-out). Each may differ slightly in size, temperament, or care needs, so it is worth checking the specific requirements of the variety you plan to keep.
Similar Species
Demasoni Cichlid (Mbuna)
Chindongo demasoni
A stunning but notoriously aggressive dwarf Mbuna from Lake Malawi. Known for its intense dark blue and black vertical stripes. They are strict herbivores (Aufwuchs grazers) and prone to 'Malawi Bloat' if fed high-protein diets. Due to extreme aggression toward their own kind, they require specific stocking densities.
Yellow Lab (Mbuna)
Labidochromis caeruleus
The Electric Yellow Lab is one of the most popular and widely kept African Cichlids from Lake Malawi. Classified as an Mbuna (rock-dwelling cichlid), they are famous for their vibrant yellow coloration and striking black dorsal stripes. While considered one of the most 'peaceful' Mbuna, they are still highly territorial cichlids that require hard, alkaline water, a sandy substrate for digging, and abundant rockwork to establish territories.
Flowerhorn Cichlid
Cichlasoma sp. hybrid
A man-made hybrid cichlid famous for its vibrant colors, extreme interactive personality, and the large nuchal hump (kok) on its head. They are incredibly aggressive 'wet pets' that will attack hands, tank mates, and equipment. They have a massive bioload, dig constantly, and must almost always be kept completely alone.
African Jewel Cichlid
Hemichromis bimaculatus
A strikingly beautiful but notoriously aggressive West African riverine cichlid. Unlike the alkaline-loving Rift Lake cichlids (e.g., Mbuna), Jewel Cichlids prefer neutral, softer water parameters. They are renowned for their brilliant red breeding dress and iridescent blue spots, but also for their extreme territoriality, especially when forming pairs and spawning. They are avid diggers and will uproot most plants.
German Blue Ram
Mikrogeophagus ramirezi
A strikingly colorful dwarf cichlid native to the Orinoco River basin. Famous for its vibrant blue spangles and peaceful demeanor compared to larger cichlids. They are strictly thermophilic (require high temperatures of 27-30°C / 81-86°F) and thrive in soft, acidic water. As 'earth-eaters' (Mikrogeophagus), they sift sand for food and form monogamous pairs.
Panda Corydoras
Corydoras panda
A highly popular, peaceful schooling catfish easily identified by its black eye patches and spotted dorsal/tail fins, resembling a giant panda. Native to the cooler waters of the Ucayali river system in Peru, they require slightly lower temperatures than many standard tropical community fish. They are strict bottom-dwellers that sift through the substrate for food.