Kribensis
Pelvicachromis pulcher
Minimum Tank
20 Gallons
Adult Size
4 inches
Temperature
75-82°F (24-28°C)
pH Range
6.0-8.0
Lifespan
5 years
About Kribensis
The kribensis is a small, colorful cichlid from the rivers and streams of Nigeria and Cameroon in West Africa. Females are often more colorful than males, developing a vivid cherry-red belly during breeding season, which is unusual in the cichlid world. Males are larger with more elongated fins and pointed dorsal and anal fin tips. Kribensis are cave-spawning cichlids that form devoted breeding pairs, with both parents actively guarding and raising their fry in a fascinating display of parental care. They are one of the easiest cichlids to breed in home aquariums and provide a wonderful introduction to cichlid breeding behavior. Their moderate size and relative peacefulness make them suitable for many community setups.
Care Requirements
Tank Setup
- • Minimum 20-gallon tank required
- • Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
- • pH: 6.0 - 8.0
- • Category: Cichlid
Diet & Feeding
- • Diet type: Omnivore
- • Feed 1-2 times daily
- • Varied diet recommended
Tank Mate Compatibility
Compatible With
Avoid Keeping With
Care Tips
Expert Tips
Provide kribensis pairs with caves made from coconut shells, clay pots, or stacked rocks in a tank of at least 20 gallons. They prefer slightly soft, acidic water at 75-82°F, though they adapt to a range of conditions. During breeding, pairs become territorial and will chase other fish away from their nesting area, so provide ample space and hiding spots for other tankmates. They are omnivorous and accept most foods including pellets, flakes, frozen bloodworms, and brine shrimp. The sex ratio of fry is influenced by pH, with lower pH producing more females. Kribensis are hardy and long-lived, often reaching 5 years or more.
Quick Facts
76L
Min Tank (20gal)
10cm
Adult Size (4")
5yr
Lifespan
1+
Can Keep Solo
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Tank Mates for Kribensis
Species from our database with overlapping water parameters, compatible temperaments and a realistic shared tank size.
Tiger Barb
Puntigrus tetrazona
easy · 20+ gal
Firemouth Cichlid
Thorichthys meeki
easy · 30+ gal
Blue Gourami
Trichopodus trichopterus
easy · 30+ gal
Buenos Aires Tetra
Hyphessobrycon anisitsi
easy · 20+ gal
Similar Care Level
Other easy-care species that suit a comparable setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size tank does a Kribensis need?
A Kribensis needs a minimum tank size of 20 gallons (76 litres).
What water parameters does a Kribensis need?
Kribensis thrive in water between 75-82°F (24-28°C) with a pH of 6.0-8.0.
Are Kribensis easy to care for?
Kribensis are considered easy to care for. They are semi-aggressive fish with a lifespan of about 5 years.
How big do Kribensis get and what do they eat?
Kribensis reach about 4 inches and are omnivores. Provide kribensis pairs with caves made from coconut shells, clay pots, or stacked rocks in a tank of at least 20 gallons. They prefer slightly soft, acidic water at 75-82°F, though they adapt to a range of conditions. During breeding, pairs become territorial and will chase other fish away from their nesting area, so provide ample space and hiding spots for other tankmates. They are omnivorous and accept most foods including pellets, flakes, frozen bloodworms, and brine shrimp. The sex ratio of fry is influenced by pH, with lower pH producing more females. Kribensis are hardy and long-lived, often reaching 5 years or more.