Kribensis
Pelvicachromis pulcher
easy careOverview
The kribensis (Pelvicachromis pulcher), or “krib”, is a West African dwarf cichlid and one of the best gateway cichlids in the hobby. Hardy, adaptable and endlessly colourful — the females flush a startling cherry-red belly when in condition — kribs bring cichlid behaviour to a community tank without the fragility of a German blue ram. Their one demand is respect for breeding territory.
Tank & water
A pair is at home in 75 litres (20 gallons); a longer tank helps if you keep tankmates.
- Temperature: a steady 24–27 °C from a reliable heater.
- Water: wonderfully adaptable across pH 6.0–7.5 and most hardness levels. Test your parameters with a kit.
- Caves: provide at least one narrow-entrance cave — a clay pot or coconut hut — as a spawning site and retreat.
- Upkeep: a mature filter and regular water changes keep them thriving.
Feeding
Kribensis are easy-going omnivores. Feed a staple of quality pellets or community food, supplemented with frozen or live bloodworm, brine shrimp and the occasional vegetable matter. They forage the lower levels, so sinking foods suit them well. Feed small amounts once or twice a day.
Tankmates
Outside breeding, kribs are peaceful and mix with tetras, barbs, rainbowfish and larger, robust community fish. Give bottom-dwellers their own space, as kribs claim the lower territory. Avoid other cave-spawning cichlids that will compete for the same real estate. Keep the tank from being crowded — see how to tell if a tank is overstocked — and quarantine newcomers first via our quarantine guide.
Kribensis — frequently asked questions
Are kribensis good beginner cichlids?
Yes — kribensis are among the easiest cichlids. They are hardy, adapt to a wide pH range and eat almost anything. The one caveat is breeding: a bonded pair becomes fiercely territorial around their cave, so give tankmates room to stay clear.
Do kribensis need a cave to breed?
They are cave spawners, so a small clay pot, coconut hut or rock cave with a narrow entrance is exactly what a pair wants. They will lay eggs inside and both parents guard the fry — one of the most rewarding easy breeding projects in the hobby.
How big do kribensis get?
Males reach around 9–10 cm, females a little smaller at 7–8 cm and noticeably rounder with a cherry-red belly. That modest size lets a pair live in a 75-litre tank, though a longer footprint helps tankmates avoid the breeding territory.
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