Saltwater Aquarist

Kribensis

(Pelvicachromis pulcher)

Kribensis (Pelvicachromis pulcher) in a freshwater aquarium

Species Description…

Scientific Name: Pelvicachromis pulcher
Common Name: Kribensis
Species Group: Cichlid
Tank Type: Community
Care Level: Beginner
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Diet Type: Omnivore
Role in Aquarium: Community Fish
Max Fish Length: 3.9 (inches)
Min Aquarium Size: (gallons)
Native Range: Nigeria and Cameroon, West Africa, in still and slow-moving vegetated waters.
Min Temperature: 75°F
Max Temperature: 81°F
Min pH: 5
Max pH: 7.5
Min GH: 0 dGH
Max GH: 12 dGH
Min Group Size:
Breeding: Easy
Lifespan: years

Overview

  • The Kribensis (Pelvicachromis pulcher), or krib, is a colorful West African dwarf cichlid. Females show a cherry-red belly.
  • Native to Nigeria and Cameroon, in still and slow, heavily vegetated waters.
  • Grows to about 3.9 in (10 cm) standard length.
  • Most fish sold are captive-bred and adaptable.

Feeding

  • Accepts most foods. A quality cichlid pellet works as the staple.
  • Add regular live and frozen foods.

Habitat

  • Plenty of hiding places and spawning caves: clay pots, roots and driftwood.
  • Plants are welcome.
  • Water: 75–81°F (24–27°C), pH 5.0–7.5, GH 0–12.

Fish Care

  • Hardy and a good first cichlid.
  • [UNVERIFIED] A tank of at least 20 gallons (76 liters) is usually recommended. Seriously Fish gives no minimum.

Compatibility

  • Suitable for community tanks.
  • Good with small characins, barbs, danios, rasboras, Corydoras, gouramis and plecos.
  • Avoid large or very boisterous fish.

Aquarium Behavior

  • Generally shy, but very territorial when breeding.

Breeding

  • Very easy. A cave spawner that often breeds in community tanks.
  • Forms monogamous pairs. Buy 6 or more young fish and let them pair naturally.
  • Both parents guard the fry.