Striped Kribensis (Pelvicachromis taeniatus)

Fish in the family Cichlidae. Moderate care. Freshwater.

Striped Kribensis

Quick facts

Scientific namePelvicachromis taeniatus
FamilyCichlidae
Also known asPelvicachromis taeniatus, Niger Red, Dwarf Rainbow Cichlid
Care levelModerate
Reef safetyFreshwater
TemperamentSemi Aggressive
Dietomnivore
Adult size3.5 in
Minimum tank size20 gallons
Water parametersTemp 75-82°F, pH 5.5-7.5, GH 4-15 dGH

Appearance

Slender dwarf cichlid; males show striped flanks and colorful fins while females flush a vivid cherry-red belly when spawning. Several geographic color variants (e.g. Nigeria Red, Moliwe).

Difficulty and care for the Striped Kribensis

Moderate

Origin and habitat

Coastal West Africa (Cameroon, Nigeria)

Keeper notes

Peaceful except when breeding, when a pair defends a cave territory. West African riverine species. Multiple regional color forms exist. Will eat shrimp. Best as a single bonded pair in a well-decorated tank.

Log Striped 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 Striped Kribensis alongside everything else in your reef.