[Ebook] 500 freshwater aquarium fish – Cichlids – Malawi Blue Dolphin (Cyrtocara moorii)

The alternative common name of this species, Blue Lumphead, derives from the pronounced “lumphead” (nuchal hump) of mature males, which resembles that of a dolphin. Its distinictively shaped head makes this popular cichlid immediately recognizable. Females also develop the lump, but it may not be quite as pronounced as it is in older males.

Other common names

• Blue Lumphead, Moom

Distribution

• Throughout Lake Malawi.

Size

• Up to 9in (23cm) reported, but usually smaller.

Behavior

• Usually follows sand-sifting species around; while males show territorial behavior—in that they defend the space around their host—this “territory” is not fixed in the traditional sense.

Diet

• Some commercial formulations, e.g. tablets, accepted, but prefers livefoods.

Aquarium

• Spacious; properly constructed backgrounds that reach almost to the water surface, with plenty of boltholes. Must be well lit and well filtered. Medium-hard, alkaline water. Temperature range: 72-79 F (22-26 C).

Breeding

• Typical maternal mouthbrooder.