Dolphin cichlid
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⚠️ Level: Medium — an impressive Malawi cichlid with a prominent nuchal hump.
Cyrtocara Moorii, better known as the Dolphin Cichlid, owes its nickname to the prominent nuchal hump that adult specimens develop — a striking feature reminiscent of a dolphin. This beautiful, blue-grey cichlid from Lake Malawi is a peaceful, social species for a spacious African cichlid aquarium.
🐠 Animal Specifications
| Max. length | ±20 cm |
| Temperature | 22–26°C |
| pH | 7.5–8.5 |
| Min. aquarium length | 150 cm |
| Diet | Omnivore |
| Housing | Pair or harem |
| Breeding behavior | Mouthbrooder |
| Origin | Lake Malawi, Africa |
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Other name | Dolphin Cichlid |
| Difficulty | ⭐⭐ Medium |
🏪 Pickup & guarantee
- Only available for pickup in our store in Heinkenszand — this animal will not be shipped
- Feel free to inspect the fish carefully in the store upon pickup
- Don't hesitate to ask for advice on care or aquarium setup when picking up
✂️ Care
Keep as a pair or harem in a spacious aquarium of at least 150 cm, with hard, alkaline water typical of Lake Malawi. As a mouthbrooder, the female carries the eggs and larvae in her mouth cavity for a period before the young fish swim independently. Provide a sandy bottom and plenty of open swimming space, supplemented with some rock formations.
🐠 Combination tip
Relatively peaceful for a Malawi cichlid and can be combined well with other non-aggressive Malawi species. Due to its size, avoid very small or shy fish species.
❓ Frequently asked questions
Where does the name 'Dolphin Cichlid' come from?
Adult specimens develop a prominent nuchal hump that resembles a dolphin — hence the nickname.
What is mouthbrooding?
The female carries the eggs and larvae in her mouth cavity for protection until the young fish can swim independently.
Is this fish suitable for a community aquarium?
Relatively peaceful for a Malawi cichlid, but due to its size, it is better combined with other Malawi species than with small, shy fish.
Do you have another question? Feel free to visit our store — we are happy to help you make the right choice for your aquarium.
