Dolph (Hippo) is a memorable supporting character in the acclaimed anime Beastars, and while he may not always be in the spotlight, his presence adds meaningful depth to the story. As a male hippopotamus attending Cherryton Academy, Dolph navigates a world where carnivores and herbivores coexist—sometimes uneasily. He’s an active member of the drama club, often taking on minor roles in their productions, but still contributing with dedication. You’ll frequently find Dolph hanging out with his fellow club members, and it’s clear he shares a solid camaraderie with them. There’s a quiet loyalty in the way he interacts, showing that Dolph values connection, even if he doesn’t always express it loudly.
When it comes to appearance, Dolph looks every bit the part of a typical hippopotamus. He has a stocky frame, short legs, and a broad nose that gives him a distinct profile. His thick gray skin contributes to a tough, almost rugged exterior, while his small round ears and large, protruding eyes give him a somewhat intense look. At first glance, Dolph might seem intimidating—but don’t let that fool you. In reality, he’s good-natured, grounded, and consistently tries to see the positive side of people, even when circumstances make it difficult.
As a herbivore, Dolph naturally feels cautious around carnivores. He doesn’t hide his distrust, especially when predatory instincts flare up in others. That said, Dolph isn’t rigid in his views—he’s capable of recognizing genuine efforts toward peace and coexistence. Over time, his experiences at Cherryton challenge his assumptions, slowly teaching him that relationships can transcend species and instincts. This personal growth makes Dolph (Hippo) more than just a background figure; he becomes a symbol of evolving understanding in a divided world.
Despite being a minor character, Dolph (Hippo) plays an important role in reinforcing Beastars’ central themes: prejudice, fear, and ultimately, acceptance. Through his actions and interactions, he helps shape the emotional landscape of the series. Whether he’s standing his ground or quietly supporting his friends, Dolph leaves a lasting impression.
Now, when we take a closer look at Dolph’s personality, certain patterns emerge. Dolph (Hippo) strongly aligns with the ISTJ personality type—Introverted, Sensing, Thinking, Judging. He’s reserved, rarely engaging in casual conversation, and prefers to keep to himself. His role as head garden keeper at the school highlights his meticulous nature. Dolph takes real pride in maintaining order and beauty in the gardens, tending to every detail with care. It’s clear he respects structure and tradition, and he’s not one to bend rules lightly. In fact, when Legoshi attacks him, Dolph reports the incident without hesitation—showing his deep respect for authority and protocol. These traits paint a picture of someone who is dependable, principled, and deeply committed to doing what he believes is right.
So, while MBTI types aren’t set in stone, Dolph (Hippo) clearly demonstrates many qualities typical of an ISTJ—detail-oriented, responsible, rule-abiding, and unwavering in his convictions.
Beyond MBTI, Dolph (Hippo) also fits well within Enneagram Type 8, known as The Challenger. He carries himself with confidence and isn’t afraid to speak his mind. Whether it’s confronting issues head-on or stepping up when needed, Dolph shows natural assertiveness. He values control and security, both for himself and those he cares about. Emotionally, he tends to keep things close to the chest—vulnerability isn’t something Dolph readily displays. Yet beneath that tough exterior lies a fiercely protective heart. He stands by his friends without wavering, ready to defend them no matter the cost. That kind of loyalty and strength is classic of Type 8s.
In the end, Dolph (Hippo) may not have the largest role in Beastars, but his impact is undeniable. From his ISTJ tendencies to his Enneagram Type 8 traits, Dolph embodies resilience, integrity, and quiet courage. And through characters like Dolph (Hippo), the show continues to explore what it means to live, grow, and connect across divides.
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