Cichlidaefreshwater fishbeginner

Kribensis

Pelvicachromis pulcher

Also known as: Kribensis, Purple Cichlid, Krib

Origin: West Africa (Nigeria, Cameroon)

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Water Parameters

Temperature2426 °C
15 °C35 °C
pH67.5
49
GH (Hardness)212 °dGH
0 °dGH30 °dGH
KH (Alkalinity)18 °dKH
0 °dKH20 °dKH

Quick Stats

Max Size
10 cm
Min Tank
80 L
Lifespan
5-8
Swimming Level
bottom
Schooling
No
Diet
omnivore
Temperament
peaceful; territorial when breeding

About

The Kribensis (Pelvicachromis pulcher) is a small cave-spawning cichlid from coastal rivers of Nigeria and Cameroon. Males are slender with colourful fins, while females are rounder with a vivid magenta belly patch. They form strong pair bonds and are devoted parents, making them excellent for observing natural cichlid behaviour.

Care Guide

Water: 24–26°C, pH 6.0–7.5, soft to medium hardness preferred. Tank: Minimum 80L; provide caves (coconut shells, clay pots) and dense planting. Feeding: Accepts quality flake, micro pellets, and small live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp and bloodworm. Behaviour: Peaceful outside breeding; pairs become highly territorial when guarding eggs or fry. Compatibility: Good community fish with similarly sized peaceful species; avoid fin-nippers.

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