Blue Dolphin Cichlid - 4"

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Cyrtocara moorii
• Common Name: Blue Dolphin, Bluedorfin
• Adult Size: 8–10 inches (20–25 cm); males may reach up to 12 inches (30 cm)
• Life Expectancy: 8–10 years
• Habitat: Sandy, open areas of Lake Malawi with minimal rock cover; often found in deeper waters

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 90 gallons (340 liters) for adults
• Ideal Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
• pH Range: 7.8–8.6
• Water Hardness: 10–20 dGH
• Temperament: Peaceful for a cichlid; can be kept with other large, non-aggressive Malawi species; males may show territorial behavior when breeding

Diet & Nutrition

• Omnivorous: Yes

  • In the wild, feeds on small invertebrates sifted from sandy substrates
  • In captivity: high-quality cichlid pellets, spirulina, vegetables (like blanched spinach or zucchini), and occasional live/frozen foods (e.g., mysis shrimp)
  • Avoid fatty or high-protein foods to prevent bloat

Appearance

• Striking, uniform powder-blue color across the body
• Males and females look similar, though males may have more intense color and a larger nuchal hump
• Long, flowing fins and a robust body structure

Distinctive Features

• Large nuchal hump (forehead bulge), especially prominent in mature males
• The unique dolphin-like profile gives the species its common name
• Mouthbrooding species—females incubate eggs and fry in their mouths for several weeks
• Gentle giants compared to more aggressive Malawi cichlids