Malawi Blue Dolphin - (Cyrtocara moorii)

🐟 Malawi Blue Dolphin – (Cyrtocara moorii) – African Cichlid for Sale

The Malawi Blue Dolphin (Cyrtocara moorii) is one of the most iconic and majestic African cichlids from Lake Malawi. Named for its distinctive dolphin-like forehead and shimmering blue coloration, this peaceful-to-semi-aggressive species is highly sought after for its beauty and graceful swimming style. Known for forming social groups in the wild, the Blue Dolphin thrives in spacious aquariums with compatible African cichlid tankmates.

🔎 Quick Facts – Malawi Blue Dolphin

• 📛 Common Name: Malawi Blue Dolphin
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Cyrtocara moorii
• 🌍 Origin: Lake Malawi, Africa
• 🎨 Appearance: Metallic to powder blue with a pronounced nuchal hump
• 📏 Max Size: 8–10 inches (20–25 cm) in aquariums; can reach 12 inches in the wild
• 💎 Availability: African cichlid for sale

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• 🐠 Peaceful to semi-aggressive compared to other Malawi cichlids
• 👥 Best kept in groups of 5+ to reduce stress and display natural social behaviors
• 🪨 Enjoys open swimming areas with some rocky shelters
• 🏆 Displays most vibrant coloration in mature males

🏠 Tank Requirements

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 75+ gallons for a group
• 🪨 Combination of open space and rock formations
• 🌊 Moderate water flow
• 💡 Standard lighting to highlight blue tones

💧 Water Parameters

• 🌡️ Temperature: 76–82°F (24–28°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 7.8–8.6 (alkaline)
• 💧 Hard water preferred

🍽️ Diet (Omnivorous)

• 🌿 High-quality cichlid pellets and spirulina-based flakes
• 🦐 Occasional frozen foods like brine shrimp and krill
• 🚫 Avoid excessive high-protein foods to prevent Malawi bloat

📋 Overview Table – Malawi Blue Dolphin Care

✨ Highlight:
The Malawi Blue Dolphin is a beautiful, large African cichlid with a unique dolphin-like profile and shimmering blue hue, making it a show-stopping centerpiece in spacious aquariums.