Scientific name: Cyrtocara moorii Common name: Malawi blue dolphin Family: Cichlidae Usual size in fish tanks: 17 - 20 cm (6.69 - 7.87 inch) 0 14 Recommended pH range for the species: 7.2 - 8.8 Recommended water hardness (dGH): 10 - 18°N (178.57 - 321.43ppm) 0°C 32°F 30°C 86°F Recommended temperature: 24 - 26 °C (75.2 - 78.8°F) The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning Where the species comes from: Africa Temperament to its own species: peaceful Temperament toward other fish species: aggressive to smaller Usual place in the tank: Middle levels Food and feeding Malawi blue dolphins are not fussy eaters, they will accept quality flake, cichlid pellets. Spirulina flake added to the diet will benefit the fish. Origin Africa; Malawi blue dolphin is endemic to Lake Malawi. Sexing Malawi blue dolphins are very hard to sex; it is believed that the males will develop a larger nuchal hump when mature. Both sexes coloration will be the same. Breeding The male will dig a pit in the substrate or clear a flat rock to use as the spawning site. The eggs are fertilized as soon as they are laid and the female will immediately pick them up for mouth brooding. The eggs will hatch after 18-21 days, a week later the fry will be released. With this species, it is best to house one male with several females. Lifespan The expected life span for Cyrtocara moorii is 12 years. Short description Cyrtocara moorii will grow large; an aquarium of at least 75 gallons is required to house several adults. It is quite tolerant of water conditions but weekly water changes are a must. Pictures Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.
