Bornustus Bornustus is a Ron’s Cichlids-created hybrid from a Red Fin Borleyi Kadango male crossed with a Nimbochromis venustus female. It is a robust Malawi hap strain for keepers who want a larger display fish with hard-water cichlid behavior. Origin and Habitat Native Region: Ron’s Cichlids-created hybrid strain. Natural Habitat: Captive-bred strain from Lake Malawi hap stock; provide open swimming room, sand, and rock cover. Physical Characteristics Size: 8-9 inches. Coloration: Mature males develop the strongest display; individual color can vary because this is a hybrid strain. Body Shape: Large, sturdy hap body with active swimming behavior. Behavior and Temperament Temperament: Mildly aggressive. Social Behavior: Best with similar-size haps and robust peacocks. Aquarium Care Tank Size: A 125 gallon aquarium or larger is recommended. Water Parameters: 74-84°F, pH 7.4-8.4, hard water. Tank Setup: Provide sand, open swimming lanes, rockwork for cover and sight breaks, and strong filtration. Diet and Feeding Primary Staple: Feed a quality daily diet such as Ron’s Peacock & Hap Adult Food. Juveniles: Growing fish can be fed Ron’s Juvenile Food. Fry: Newly released fry should be started on Ron’s Fry Food. Feeding Frequency: Feed 1–2 small meals daily and avoid overfeeding. Breeding Breeding Type: Maternal mouthbrooder. Breeding Notes: Females mouthbrood eggs and fry. Keep this hybrid clearly separated from pure-species breeding groups. Tank Mates Compatible With: Lake Malawi haps and robust peacocks of similar size. Avoid: Small fish, very aggressive mbuna, and pure-line breeding projects.
