🐠 Red Fin Kadango Cichlid (Copadichromis borleyi) – Live Freshwater Fish
 
Introduce a vibrant splash of color to your aquarium with the Red Fin Kadango Cichlid, a stunning species native to Lake Malawi in East Africa. Renowned for its striking red fins and shimmering blue body, this cichlid is a favorite among aquarists seeking both beauty and dynamic behavior in their freshwater setups.​
 
🌍 Origin & Natural Habitat
Scientific Name: Copadichromis borleyi
Common Names: Red Fin Kadango, Kadango Cichlid
Origin: Lake Malawi, Africa
Habitat: Prefers rocky areas and open waters in the intermediate zones of the lake​
 
📏 Size & Lifespan
Adult Size: Males up to 20 cm (8 inches); females slightly smaller
Lifespan: 8–10 years with proper care​
🧪 Water Parameters
Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
pH Level: 7.8–8.6
Water Hardness: 10–20 dGH​
🏡 Aquarium Requirements
Minimum Tank Size: 300 liters (approximately 80 gallons)
Tank Setup: Provide a sandy substrate with ample rocks and caves to mimic their natural habitat. Ensure open swimming spaces and strong filtration to maintain water quality.​
 
🍽️ Diet & Feeding
Diet: Omnivorous; thrives on a varied diet
Feeding Recommendations: Offer high-quality cichlid pellets, supplemented with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and spirulina-based foods. Occasional treats of blanched vegetables like zucchini can also be beneficial.​
 
🤝 Temperament & Compatibility
Behavior: Generally peaceful but may exhibit territorial behavior, especially during breeding
Tank Mates: Suitable companions include other non-aggressive or semi-aggressive cichlids of similar size, such as Haps and Peacocks. Avoid housing with overly aggressive species to prevent stress and aggression.​
 
🐣 Breeding Information
Breeding Behavior: Maternal mouthbrooder; females carry fertilized eggs in their mouths for 18–25 days until fry are ready to swim freely
Breeding Setup: Provide flat rocks or sandy areas to encourage natural spawning behavior. Maintaining a male-to-female ratio of 1:3 can help reduce aggression and promote successful breeding.​