Kribensis (Pelvicachromis pulcher)

Fish in the family Cichlidae. Easy care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific namePelvicachromis pulcher

FamilyCichlidae

Also known asKrib, Rainbow Krib, Purple Cichlid, Common Krib

Care levelEasy

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentSemi Aggressive

Dietomnivore

Adult size4 in

Minimum tank size20 gallons

Water parametersTemp 75-82°F, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 5-18 dGH

Appearance

Elongated dwarf cichlid with a fawn body, an iridescent purple/pink belly (especially the female when in breeding condition), and yellow- and black-spotted fins.

Difficulty and care for the Kribensis

Easy

Origin and habitat

Niger Delta, West Africa (Nigeria, Cameroon)

Keeper notes

Peaceful most of the time but becomes notably territorial and aggressive when breeding, defending a cave and chasing fish from the lower tank. West African (riverine, not Rift Lake) so included here. Will eat dwarf shrimp. Keep as a pair with adequate floor space and caves.

Log Kribensis in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Kribensis alongside everything else in your reef.

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