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.