Species profile
Blue Dolphin Cichlid
Cyrtocara moorii
Semi aggressive
Moderate care
650 L minimum aquarium
15–20 cm adult size
Mid bottom
Minimum group: 5
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Large open-water/sand-associated Malawi cichlid. It is relatively peaceful for its size but needs a six-foot class aquarium, open swimming room and strong filtration.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
24–26 °C
pH
7.5–8.5
GH
Up to 20 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 5
Tank zone
Mid bottom
Territory level
Moderate
Predation risk
Tiny fry
Bioload factor
3.5
Best results come from a social group with one male and several females. Avoid aggressive mbuna that may intimidate them and allow large open sandy areas.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Caution
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
Yes
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
650 L
Minimum footprint
180 × 60 cm
Accepted scientific name
Cyrtocara moorii
Alternative names
Blue Dolphin, Malawi Blue Dolphin
Native range
Endemic to Lake Malawi, East Africa.
Natural habitat
Associated with open sandy zones. Keep large areas of soft sand, restrained rockwork and high oxygenation; plants may be uprooted by digging.
Diet & feeding
Use a balanced Malawi pellet/granule with varied small frozen foods. Do not overfeed this large-bodied species.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Both sexes can be blue. Mature males are often larger and more strongly humped; venting is the reliable method.
Breeding
Polygamous maternal mouthbrooder. Female carries fertilised eggs and developing fry; the male does not form a long-term pair bond.