Malawi Blue Dolphin - (Cyrtocara moorii)

🐠 Malawi Blue Dolphin – (Cyrtocara moorii)

The Malawi Blue Dolphin is a striking African cichlid known for its prominent nuchal hump and vibrant blue coloration. Native to Lake Malawi, this species is popular among aquarists for its unique body shape, peaceful temperament, and stunning appearance. It is often kept as a centerpiece fish in African cichlid tanks.

🌊 Tank Setup

• 🏞️ Minimum 55+ gallon tank
• 🪨 Provide plenty of rocks and caves for shelter
• 🌿 Open swimming areas with moderate lighting
• 💧 Stable water conditions with good filtration and moderate water flow

🍽️ Diet

• 🥦 Omnivorous diet – includes quality flakes, pellets, and occasional frozen/live foods
• 🍠 Supplement with vegetable matter like spirulina and blanched veggies
• 🦐 Benefits from protein-rich treats

⚖️ Temperament

• 🤝 Generally peaceful but can show mild territorial behavior, especially during breeding
• 🐟 Best kept with similarly sized African cichlids of compatible temperament
• 🏆 Popular for community Lake Malawi cichlid setups

🧠 Behavior & Care

• 🏃‍♂️ Active swimmer and explorer
• ⚠️ Males develop a distinctive forehead bump with age
• 🧼 Requires regular water changes and stable water parameters

📋 At a Glance

💡 The Malawi Blue Dolphin is a beautiful, peaceful African cichlid ideal for hobbyists seeking a colorful centerpiece with moderate care needs.