Kribensis Cichlid

Remarks: Common Kribensis (Pelvicachromis pulcher) have been a staple in the aquarium hobby for decades. Both males and females show brilliant colors, long fins, and excellent parental care. Sand is necessary, as these cichlids spend a considerable amount of time digging in the substrate for food and rearranging their habitat.

When a pair forms, they will often remain a pair for life. After choosing a spot to spawn, usually inside a cave with a narrow opening, the pair will dig out a pit to make their spawning area larger and cleaner. Spawning typically takes place at night, and after several days, you will see fairly large free-swimming fry emerge from the opening, guarded closely by the pair. Each day, the pair will allow the fry to explore the tank and feed on microorganisms before herding them back into the cave before the lights turn off. It is an amazing sight and a perfect introduction to cichlid breeding for any new aquarist.

Scientific Name: Pelvicachromis pulcher

Common Name: Common Krib

Max Size: 5"

pH: 5.0-7.0

Hardness: Moderate

Temperature: 72-82°

Aggressiveness: Semi-Aggressive

Region of Origin: West Africa

Captive Bred or Wild: Captive Bred

Diet: Flake or pellet

Compatibility: West African cichlids, catfish, larger schooling fish.