Blue Dolphin Cichlid
Live Fish
Shipping & Returns
All live fish are shipped using NZPost overnight services with authority to leave (no signature).
We cannot guarantee the overnight services, this is a service that we/you pay for; but is not guaranteed.
We DO NOT offer returns on any alive animal.
Above are key points of our policy, Click Here to read our full shipping policy.
Dead On Arrival (DOA) Cover*
- DOA must be reported within 2 hours of delivery.
- Bags must remain sealed (do not remove rubber band or tape)
- Photos & Videos must be supplied this can be emailed or sent through live chat; including your order No. (minimum 3 clear images, showing dead fish & sealed bag)
- DOA does not apply once the bags are opened & fish have been released.
- DOA does not apply to any Rural (RD) address.
Introducing New Fish
Follow these steps to minimize stress and ensure a smooth transition for your new fish!
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Float the Bag: Place the sealed bag containing the new fish in the tank. This equalizes the temperature between bag and tank water.
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Open and Add Tank Water Gradually: After about 5 minutes, open the bag and add a small amount of aquarium water into it every 5 minutes for 15–30 minutes. This helps the fish acclimate to the tank’s water chemistry.
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Wait 15–30 Minutes: Let the fish adjust to the water temperature and chemistry gradually in the bag.
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Release Fish: Gently release the fish into the tank without pouring the original bag water in.
Blue Dolphin Cichlid
A beautiful and relatively peaceful species of Malawi cichlid, the Blue Dolphin is so-named because the nuchal hump on the forehead and bill-like mouth that cause it to resemble a dolphin. In the wild, these fish follow behind larger cichlids which dig into the substrate for food.
The aquarium itself should be at least 450L as these fish do reach a large size and require a decent amount of swimming space. It is not unknown for Blue Dolphins to immerse themselves in the sand if they are particularly frightened. Best results are achieved when one male is housed with at least 4 or 5 females.
This species may also be kept alongside other more peaceable Malawi cichlids. Blue Dolphin Haps are unlikely to eat plants, but they are capable of uprooting them. It is also wise to research information on other tankmates before adding anything green and leafy.
Care:
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Colour: Blue
Diet: Omnivore
Max Size: 25cm
Tank Size: 400L
Temperature: 25-29c
pH: 7.8-8.6
Size Guide: 4-5cm
***Photos for reference only*** If you like updated photo please contact us and we will send you photos/video of actual fish that you are purchasing.
