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Photo of: Dolphin Cichlid (Cyrtocara moorii)
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Scientific Name(s): Cyrtocara moorii, Haplochromis moorii
Common Name(s): Dolphin Cichlid
Family: Cichlidae
Species Type: African Cichlids, Lake Malawi
Maximum Size: 8 inches
Life Span: 12 years
Natural Habitat: East African Lake Malawi
Minimum Tank Size: 55 gallons
Tank Region: All over
Possible Tank Mates: Other less aggressive malawi cichlids, synodontis catfish.
Description: Cyrtocara moorii is a beautiful, mild-tempered fish that is a delight to keep. It is commonly known in the hobby as the Malawi Blue Dolphin, and was once classified as Haplochromis moorii. Now it is the only species belonging to the genus Cyrtocara. The nickname Blue Dolphin originates from the shape of its head – a nuchal hump and bill-like mouth – which resembles that of a dolphin.
This fish is quite rare in Lake Malawi, although it has a very wide distribution. Notwithstanding, most exports come from Lumbaulo and Malombe. It has been in the hobby for several decades now, being first imported in 1968. In the wild, C. moorii displays a very unique feeding adaptation. Classified as a micro-predator, it follows close behind substrate-digging cichlids - like Taeniolethrinops praeorbitalis, Fossorochromis rostratus, and Mylochromis lateristriga – and feeds on the small edible organisms and particles that get stirred up behind them as they feed.
Temperature Range 75°F - 81°F
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| 60°F |
65°F |
70°F |
75°F |
80°F |
85°F |
90°F |
| pH 5.0 |
pH 6.0 |
pH 7.0 |
pH 8.0 |
pH 9.0 |
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African Catfish
