Copadichromis borleyi “Kadango Red Fin”

🔥 Copadichromis borleyi “Kadango Red Fin”

📖 Overview The Kadango Red Fin (Copadichromis borleyi) is a striking Lake Malawi Haplochromis cichlid known for its brilliant metallic blue body and fiery red fins. Native to rocky shorelines in Malawi, this species is prized by aquarists for its color contrast, elegant swimming, and relatively peaceful temperament compared to Mbunas. Males develop especially vibrant coloration, while females remain silver-gray with hints of red.

🌟 Key Features

• ✅ Brilliant Colors: Males shine with blue bodies and vivid red-orange fins
• ✅ Lake Malawi Hap: Graceful, open-water swimmer with less aggression than Mbunas
• ✅ Showpiece Fish: Excellent centerpiece for African cichlid aquariums
• ✅ Natural Behavior: Males hold territories while females school peacefully
• ✅ Hardy & Striking: A favorite for Malawi enthusiasts

📐 Care Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Copadichromis borleyi
• Variety: Kadango Red Fin
• Origin: Lake Malawi, Africa
• Size: 6–8 inches
• Lifespan: 7–10 years
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive (less so than Mbuna cichlids)
• Tank Size: 75+ gallons
• Water Parameters:
• Temperature: 76–82°F
• pH: 7.8–8.6
• Hardness: Hard, alkaline water
• Diet: Omnivorous – high-quality cichlid pellets, spirulina, and occasional frozen/live foods

🧠 Behavior & Tank Mates

• Best Kept With: Other Malawi Haps and Peacocks of similar size
• Avoid: Small, timid species or overly aggressive Mbunas
• Social Setup: Males do best with harems (1 male to several females)

❓ FAQ

Q: How is Kadango Red Fin different from Peacock Cichlids?
A: Kadango is a Haplochromis with a more streamlined body and open-water swimming habits, while Peacocks are more bottom- and rock-oriented.

Q: Can they live with Mbunas?
A: Sometimes, but Kadango Red Fins prefer less aggression and more open space than Mbunas typically allow.

Q: Do males and females look the same?
A: No—males are bright blue with red fins, females are silver-gray with subtle red.