Copadichromis borleyi

An open-water Utaka cichlid from Lake Malawi; males are more colorful with longer fins.

An open-water Utaka cichlid from Lake Malawi. Males are more colorful with longer fins than females. Red-finned and yellow-finned locality forms are common.

Adult length: Up to 20 cm (standard length, without the tail fin)
Water temperature: 25–29 °C
Lifespan: 8–10 years
pH: 7.5–8.5
Hardness: 10–25 dGH

Natural habitat: Inhabits rocky lake areas near large boulders, also gathering above sand beside rocky islets in shallow water.

Avoid aggressive Mbuna and members of the same genus, which may hybridize. Fish with similar colors may also provoke fighting.

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Social behaviour and territory

Social; usually keep at least three females per male. Needs ample swimming lanes; use a 150 × 45 cm footprint.

Diet and feeding

Combine small live animal foods, frozen foods and dried foods, with plant-based supplements.

Sources