Blue Dolphin Cichlid (Cyrtocara moorii) Care Guide

A striking metallic blue cichlid from Lake Malawi distinguished by the prominent nuchal hump that develops in mature specimens.

Overview

Cyrtocara moorii is a species in the family Cichlidae. A striking metallic blue cichlid from Lake Malawi distinguished by the prominent nuchal hump that develops in mature specimens. One of the more peaceful haplochromines, it prefers open sandy areas where it follows feeding cichlids to sift through disturbed substrate.

Taxonomy

Family: Cichlidae
Genus: Cyrtocara
Scientific name: Cyrtocara moorii
Other names: Malawi Blue Dolphin, Humphead Cichlid
Origin: Africa, Lake Malawi

Habitat

Endemic to Lake Malawi, where it inhabits intermediate sandy-rocky zones at depths of 3-15 m. Males develop a pronounced nuchal hump in old age, giving the species its common name. Diet is mainly invertebrates picked from the substrate stirred up by feeding mbuna and other cichlids.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 300 L
Temperature: 24-28 °C
pH: 7.5-8.5
GH: 10-20 °dGH
Water flow: moderate
Adult size: 20-25 cm
Lifespan: 8-12 years
Recommended group size: ≥ 4
Difficulty: intermediate

Diet

Classified as omnivore. Recommended feeding frequency: 2x daily. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.

Compatibility

Temperament: semi-aggressive
Swimming level: middle
Compatible tank mates: Peacock Cichlid, Other Haplochromines, Synodontis Petricola
Avoid with: Mbunas, Small Fish, Shrimp

Breeding

Breeding strategy: mouthbrooder
Breeding difficulty: intermediate