OB Moori - OB Blue Dolphin
Cyrtocara moorii
OB Moori, also called OB Blue Dolphin, is an OB form of the Malawi Blue Dolphin cichlid. It keeps the rounded head profile and calmer large-hap presence of Cyrtocara moorii while adding variable OB patterning.
Origin and Habitat
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Native Region: Aquarium OB strain from Lake Malawi Cyrtocara moorii stock.
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Natural Habitat: Wild Blue Dolphins are associated with sandy Lake Malawi habitats, often near other sand-sifting cichlids.
Physical Characteristics
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Size: 8-9 inches.
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Coloration: Monomorphic OB patterning with variable blotching; males for sale should resemble the product photos but individual patterns vary.
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Body Shape: Large, deep-bodied hap with the rounded Blue Dolphin head profile.
Behavior and Temperament
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Temperament: Mildly aggressive, with stronger conspecific aggression possible.
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Social Behavior: Best with peacocks and haps of similar size in a spacious aquarium.
Aquarium Care
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Tank Size: A 125 gallon aquarium or larger is recommended.
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Water Parameters: 74-84°F, pH 7.4-8.4, hard water.
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Tank Setup: Provide sand, long open swimming lanes, some rock structure, and strong filtration.
Diet and Feeding
Breeding
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Breeding Type: Maternal mouthbrooder.
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Breeding Notes: Females mouthbrood eggs and fry. Keep OB Blue Dolphin projects labeled if breeding.
Tank Mates
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Compatible With: Lake Malawi peacocks and haps of similar size and temperament.
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Avoid: Very aggressive mbuna, small fish, and cramped aquariums.
Conservation Status
Cyrtocara moorii is assessed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. Ron’s Cichlids promotes sustainability by captive breeding this species for the aquarium trade, helping reduce pressure on wild-caught specimens.
