Copadichromis borleyi (Kadango)

Red Fin Borleyi Cichlid

Max Size:

8.0"

Temperament:

Semi-aggressive

Water Temperature:

78 - 82°F

Diet:

Carnivore

Min. Tank Size:

90 Gal

Description:

The Copadichromis borleyi or Red Fin Borleyi cichlid is a popular Haplochromis from Lake Malawi, which is native to most rocky shorelines around Lake Malawi in Africa. Fairly common in the hobby, males of this species develop metallic blue color over their face, dorsal and pelvic fins, and partially on their anal and tail fins. They also feature a orange to red color which covers most of their body. Females are a dull grey with orange or red colored fins. Males can get to be about 8" in length and females will be slightly smaller.

Compatibility:

Red Fin Borleyi cichlids are fairly mild mannered African cichlids. They are fairly peaceful and both males and females may co-exist when not actively breeding. However, males will show increased levels of aggression when spawning. Some compatible cichlid species are Peacock cichlids like the Blue Neon Peacock, or other Haps like the Yellow Blaze Lithobates, and the Star Sapphire cichlid.

Tank Requirements and Feeding:

Copadichromis borleyi cichlids are native to the hard alkaline waters of Lake Malawi in Africa. Ideal water condition for a home aquarium should be similar to their natural habitat to allow these fish to display their best colors. The water temperature should be between 78 - 82°F with a pH between 7.8 - 8.6. Additives like Cichlid Lake Salt and Malawi/Victoria Buffer will condition the aquarium water for African cichlids. The aquarium substrate should be sand or fine gravel, and plenty of rocks and caves should be provided to allow these fish to claim territories or seek protection.

Copadichromis borleyi cichlids are carnivores and should be fed a variety of foods that contain a good amount of protein. Plankton based flakes mixed with commercially prepared cichlid pellets and live (or frozen) brine shrimp or blood worms, are good choices for their diet. Such foods will help bring out the red and metallic blue colors, which is the main reason for the popularity of these cichlids.

Breeding:

Red Fin Borleyi cichlids are sexually dimorphic. Males will display the metallic blue color and red color, while females remain a dull grey color with red fins. Males also get slightly larger than females.

Like most Lake Malawi cichlids, the Copadichromis borleyi is a mouthbrooder. While spawning, a female will pick up and hold the eggs in her mouth to protect them. Females may continue to carry the eggs and fry in their mouth for two weeks or longer. It is a good idea to keep several females with one male when breeding. This will help spread out any aggression displayed by the male.

All Lake Malawi Haplochromis species will hybridize with other closely related species. If you want to avoid hybridization, the Red Fin Borleyi cichlid should not be kept with Azureus cichlids, Fireline Mloto, or White Blaze Chrysonotus.