Copadichromis borleyi is a cichlid from Lake Malawi in eastern Africa. (Click here for a general discussion of cichlids.) It is also known by the following names:

Size: Males can reach 25cm (10 in.). Females are considerably smaller.

Environment: This fish tolerates pHs from 6.5 to 8.0 while preferring pHs at near the higher end (basic) of this range. Water hardness is not critical, but it prefers very hard water. Optimum temperature ranges from 20-30°C (68-85°F).

Temperament: This fish is not aggressive for a cichlid, but males can be quarrelsome among themselves. They are active fish, constantly interacting with other fish. It can be kept either in a large single species aquarium or in active community aquaria with fish with similar behavior and requirements.

Spawning: We maintain breeding colonies of this cichlid consisting of a single male with six to twenty females. This cichlid breeds like other members of its genus. It is a maternal mouth brooder. At 30°C (85°F), females carry eggs and fry for about 21 days. Broods are smaller than those of most cichlids, but can be as large as 40 fry for mature females. We do not strip eggs or fry, but allow the females to carry them to natural release. The fry are large and can eat commercial food, Daphnia, brine shrimp nauplii, etc. immediately. The fry require ample hiding places to survive in the presence of adults. In our system, fry are provided abundant cover and the adults are removed after four to six weeks to allow the fry to grow out.

Additional Information: For more information about this species, click on one of the following article names:
     http://www.cichlid-forum.com/articles/a_baenschi.php

Additional Photos: For additional photos of this species, click on one of the following photo locations:
     

Page last modified December 27, 2007.
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