Scientific name: Copadichromis borleyi

Common name: Red Fin

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 11 - 14 cm (4.33 - 5.51 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 8 - 8.5

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 12 - 15°N (214.29 - 267.86ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 24 - 26 °C (75.2 - 78.8°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: Africa

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Food and feeding

The staple diet of Red Fin should consist of quality flakes or cichlid pellets. Spirulina flake will provide a healthy supplement for them.

Origin

Africa; this species is endemic to Lake Malawi.

Sexing

Males tend to be brightly colored; females will display a dark body with red fins.

Breeding

It is best to keep 1 male with several females. The male will color up and display to the female in a courtship ritual. Spawning will follow on a flat surface and the female will scoop up the eggs into her mouth. Incubation is normally 3-4 weeks and when the fry are released they will be quite large. They can be fed on cyclopeeze or brine shrimp.

Lifespan

The expected life span for Red Fin is 12 years.

Short description

Copadichromis borleyi was not discovered until 1960 but it makes a great addition to the Malawi tank. It is a very peaceful species compared to other Malawi. The male will be very caring for his group of females.