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Maximum size : 10 cm
Kribensis Cichlid - Pelvicachromis Pulcher : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
Kribensis Cichlids (Pelvicachromis pulcher) are a delightful and peaceful species that are easy to care for. Their unique and eye-catching colour patterns, as well as their high activity level, make them a perfect addition to any community aquarium. However, due to their generally shy and retiring nature, it is not advisable to keep them with overly aggressive or large species. Although Kribensis Cichlids are typically kept in a community aquarium, it is essential to choose their tank mates wisely. Slow-moving fish, such as angelfish, may have their fins nipped by these gentle creatures despite their peaceful nature. Additionally, since kribensis are territorial about caves, they should not be kept with other cave-dwelling species. One or two caves should be provided for each fish, even if you don' t plan on breeding them. The most common materials used for caves are stable rock formations and flowerpots. A cave does not have to be large, but it must be structurally sound and have only one entrance to allow in minimal light. The edges of the opening should be smooth. The aquarium should be well-planted with natural or artificial plants. While Kribensis Cichlids generally do not damage vegetation, they enjoy burrowing and may uproot plants. They prefer fine, dark gravel, which they will rearrange to suit their needs. Additionally, provide an open swimming area in addition to caves and plant cover. Kribensis Cichlids are popular fish due to their undemanding water parameters. Kribensis Cichlids are distinguishable from other fish species by their variety of eye-popping colours. The base colouration ranges from various shades of grey to white, accentuated by a black stripe running from the eye to the tail. There may also be black colouration on top of the head. Red and yellow edges surround their dorsal and tail fins, and some individuals have long, brightly coloured pelvic fins with metallic blue stripes. The species also has black dots that imitate eyes, which may be found on the fan-shaped tail fin and the dorsal fin tips. In the aquarium trade, an albino form of the species has been developed. Kribensis Cichlids have an incompletely dominant trait, unlike typical albinism, meaning that the trait is not recessive.Kribensis Cichlid Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Distinguishing between male and female Kribensis Cichlids (Pelvicachromis pulcher) is a straightforward task. Females are slightly smaller and exhibit a reddish-pink belly, which becomes more intense during the breeding season. Moreover, they possess a fuller and rounder body compared to their male counterparts. On the other hand, male Kribs are larger in size and feature elongated and pointed dorsal, caudal, and anal fins. Particularly, the dorsal fin is noticeably curved towards the back of the body, forming a pointed tip.Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Pelvicachromis Pulcher |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1901 |
| Other Names | Rainbow Krib, Pink Kribensis, Krib, Purple Cichlid, King Cichlid, Palette Cichlid, |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Cichliformes |
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Genus | Pelvicachromis |
| Origins | Benin Nigeria Ethiopia Cameroon |
| Max Size | 10 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Bottom - Middle |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | |
| Best kept as | Groups 5+ |
| Diet | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg-Layer |
| Lifespan | 5 - 8 years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| PH | 6.0 - 8.0 |
| GH | 5 - 20 |
| KH | |
| TDS |
| ℉ | 75 - 79 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 23.9 - 26.1 |
