Description:
The Kribensis cichlid, known as Pelvicachromis pulcher is a small peaceful cichlid species native to the slow-moving rivers and streams of West Africa. Admired for their vibrant and iridescent hues, these fish display a dazzling combination of electric blues, purples, reds, pinks and yellows, especially when in breeding condition. Females often show a deep pink or purple belly, a feature that becomes even more vivid during breeding.
Their small size and eye catching colouration make Kribensis a popular and rewarding choice for freshwater aquariums. Unlike many other cichlids, they exhibit a manageable temperament and strong pair bonding behaviour. This, combined with their adaptability and hardy nature, contributes to their popularity among both beginner and experienced aquarists.
To tell genders apart, males tend to be slightly larger and more slender than females, often displaying elongated fin extensions and do not get the pink belly that the females do during maturity. When paired, both male and female Kribensis demonstrate attentive parenting by raising and guarding their eggs and fry until they are old enough to venture out alone.
Temperament:
Kribensis are generally peaceful, making them well suited to community aquariums. However, during breeding, they may become territorial particularly around their chosen cave or spawning site. It is advisable to provide plenty of hiding spots and sufficient space to avoid conflicts with tank mates. They do best with other peaceful species and should be housed with fish that tolerate similar water parameters.
Diet:
Rainbow Kribensis are omnivorous and thrive on a varied diet. In the wild, they feed on small invertebrates, algae, and organic matter. In captivity, they readily accept high quality pellets, flakes, and frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. Their diet should be supplemented with vegetable matter such as spirulina or blanched greens to promote optimal health and colour vibrancy.
Breeding Behaviour:
Kribensis are cave spawners and will happily use small terracotta pots, coconut shells, or other enclosed spaces as breeding sites. When ready to spawn, the female will display her colourful, bright red/pink/purple belly to attract the male and lead him to the chosen cave. She lays her eggs on the roof or walls inside, and the male fertilises them.
Both parents work together to protect the eggs and fry. The female typically stays inside the cave, cleaning and fanning the eggs, while the male patrols the area around it. Eggs usually hatch within 5–7 days, depending on temperature.
Once the fry hatch, they will stay close to the cave at first. The parents often “herd” them around the tank as they grow, defending them from other fish. Kribensis are very attentive parents, but if other tankmates are present, make sure there are plenty of hiding spots for the fry to improve their survival rate.
Care Guide:
- Species – Pelvicachromis pulcher
- Common Name – Kribensis
- Origin – West Africa, Nigeria
- Temperament - Peaceful, Territorial when breeding
- Diet – Omnivore
- Minimum Tank Requirement - 75 litres
- Tank Level - Medium to Bottom dweller
- Care Level - easy
- PH Range – 6.0 – 7.5
- Temperature – Tropical 24°c – 27°c
- Breed Type – Egg Layer - Usually in caves
- Size – Grows to approximately 10cm
- Sex – Un-sexed
Acclimation Guide:
- Float the Bag: Place the unopened bag in your tank and let it float for 15–20 minutes. This lets the water inside the bag slowly match your tank’s temperature.
- Turn Off the Lights: Keep the aquarium lights off during this process. It helps keep things calm and prevents sudden temperature changes.
- Add a Bit of Tank Water: After floating, carefully open the bag and pour out about half the water into a sink or bucket (not into your tank). Then, slowly add small amounts of your tank water into the bag over 15–20 minutes. This helps your fish adjust to the new water conditions.
- Gently Move the Fish: Use a fish net to gently move your fish from the bag into the tank. Try not to pour the bag water into your tank — this helps keep your aquarium clean and healthy.
- Watch and Wait: It’s normal for fish to hide or act a bit shy at first. Keep an eye on them, and avoid doing a water change for the first 24 hours to give them time to settle in.
- Feeding Behaviour: New fish may not eat any food for the first 12-24 hours whilst it is settling into its new environment, please allow some time before feeding as the food may go to waste.
For more detailed steps and tips, feel free to visit our Acclimation Guide in our Education tab to help make the transition as smooth as possible for your new fish.
Rainbow Kribensis
Rainbow Kribensis
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Is Your Tank Ready? — Tank Checklist Before Buying
Is Your Tank Ready? — Tank Checklist Before Buying
⚠️ Important: Please ensure your aquarium is fully cycled before introducing any new fish. A cycled tank provides a stable, healthy environment and helps prevent stress, illness and even death of your new fish! If you’re unsure what this means, visit the Education section of our website and read our page on The Nitrogen Cycle.
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