Blue Dolphin Cichlid, also known as Hump-head Cichlid, is a unique fish species from Lake Malawi in East Africa.
Many people enjoy having this fish in their aquariums because of its distinct appearance.
It’s the only member of its genus, and its name pays tribute to an English scientist John Edmund Sharrock Moore.
This fish usually lives in shallow waters with sandy bottoms.
Blue Dolphin Cichlid Interesting Facts
- Blue Dolphin Cichlid, native to Lake Malawi in East Africa, is unique for its distinct appearance and sandy habitat preference.
- This fish grows up to 7.9 inches (20.0 centimeters) long and thrives in shallow waters with a pH range of 7.2 to 8.8 and temperatures between 75°F to 79°F (24°C to 26°C).
- Named after English scientist John Edmund Sharrock Moore, this fish is the only member of its genus.
- Females exhibit mouthbrooding behavior, carrying their offspring in their mouths during early development stages.
Blue Dolphin Cichlid Habitat
Blue Dolphin Cichlid comes from Lake Malawi in Africa and is found throughout its waters.
It lives in freshwater environments near the bottom of the lake, between 3 to 15 meters deep.
The preferred water conditions for this tropical fish include a pH range of 7.2 to 8.8, a hardness range of 10 to 18 dH, and temperatures between 75°F to 79°F (24°C to 26°C).
Its natural habitat lies between latitudes of 9°S to 15°S.
| Water Temperature: | 75°F to 79°F (24°C to 26°C) |
| Water pH: | 7.2 to 8.8 pH |
| Water Hardness: | 10 to 18 dH |
Blue Dolphin Cichlid Physical Characteristics
Size: 7.9 inches (20.0 centimeters)
Blue Dolphin Cichlid grows up to 7.9 inches (20.0 centimeters) long.
Blue Dolphin Cichlid Reproduction
Blue Dolphin Cichlid has a unique process. The female carries her babies in her mouth and looks after them as they grow.
Blue Dolphin Cichlid Scientific Classification
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Order: | Cichliformes |
| Family: | Cichlidae |
| Genus: | Cyrtocara |
| Scientific Name: | Cyrtocara moorii |
| Also Known As: | Blue Dolphin Cichlid, Hump-head Cichlid |
| Conservation Status: | Vulnerable |