Species profile
Copadichromis Borleyi
Copadichromis borleyi
Semi aggressive
Moderate care
350 L minimum aquarium
14–18 cm adult size
Mid–top
Minimum group: 4
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Open-water Utaka/hap from rocky Lake Malawi shores. Needs more swimming length than a typical mbuna layout.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
24–26 °C
pH
7.5–8.5
GH
10–25 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 4
Tank zone
Mid–top
Territory level
Moderate
Predation risk
Tiny fry
Bioload factor
3
Best as a harem or one male with several females. Generally less combative than mbuna, but adult males still need visual separation and long open water.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Planktivore
Minimum aquarium volume
350 L
Minimum footprint
150 × 50 cm
Accepted scientific name
Copadichromis borleyi
Alternative names
Copadichromis Borleyi, Red Fin Kadango, Kadango, Copadichromis borleyi
Native range
Endemic to Lake Malawi, East Africa.
Natural habitat
Rocky shore and adjacent open water. Provide rock refuges at the sides/back while preserving a long unobstructed swimming lane.
Diet & feeding
Feeds substantially on plankton in open water. Offer fine/medium quality cichlid foods and varied small frozen invertebrates.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Adult males are much more colourful with contrasting body and fins; females are relatively plain silver/grey.
Breeding
Maternal mouthbrooder. Males display and defend temporary spawning sites; females carry the brood orally.