Pelvicachromis sp. 'Wouri'

Pelvicachromis sp. 'Wouri' is provisionally named for its collection locality in the Wouri estuary drainage of coastal Cameroon. Outside of breeding season it is somewhat cryptically coloured with muted olive and brown tones, but when conditioned and ready to spawn, both sexes intensify dramatically — males showing metallic blue-green fin sheen and females developing a deep violet-pink ventral flush.

Like all Pelvicachromis, this undescribed form is an obligate cave-spawner with strong pair bonding and dedicated parental care of eggs and fry. It is rarely imported and consequently commands collector interest. Maintaining pairs in stable, species-appropriate conditions is the best way to observe the full range of colours.

Soft, slightly acidic water at 24–27°C is ideal. A heavily planted tank with multiple cave structures and a gentle filtration flow replicates the quiet, shaded coastal forest streams of its homeland.

Water: 24–27°C, pH 5.5–7.0, soft to moderately hard (GH 2–10, KH 1–5). Tank: 80 L minimum; multiple caves, low flow, dim to moderate lighting, and leaf litter recommended. Feeding: Micro pellets, flake, plus frozen/live cyclops, brine shrimp, and bloodworm for conditioning. Breeding: Cave-spawner; provide 2–3 cave options and isolate the pair for best fry outcome. Compatibility: Peaceful nano community; avoid anything boisterous or competitive for caves.