(F93) Kribensis Cichlid [≈ 2 inches]

Description

🐟 Kribensis Cichlid

📌 Basic Info

• Scientific Name: Pelvicachromis pulcher

• Family: Cichlidae

• Origin: West Africa (Niger & Cross River systems)

• Size: 3 – 4 inches (7 – 10 cm)

• Lifespan: 5 – 8 years

• Tank Zone: Bottom to Mid

🌊 Water Parameters

• TDS: 80 – 200 ppm

• pH: 6.0 – 7.5

• Temperature: 24 – 28°C (75 – 82°F)

• Hardness: 5 – 12 dGH

🐟 Characteristics

• Known as one of the most colorful dwarf cichlids.

• Males are larger with pointed fins, females are smaller with a bright red/purple belly (especially during breeding).

• Hardy, peaceful (for a cichlid), and great for beginners.

• Active, loves caves and hiding places.

🍽️ Food

• Type: Omnivorous

• Diet: High-quality cichlid pellets, flakes, frozen/live foods (brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia), and vegetables like peas or spinach.

• Feeding: 1–2 times daily, small portions.

🛠️ Maintenance

• Tank Size: Minimum 20–30 gallons for a pair.

• Filtration: Moderate – keep water clean and stable.

• Decor: Provide rocks, driftwood, and caves (essential for breeding). Live or artificial plants are also good.

• Water Change: 20–30% weekly.

👥 Social Behavior

• Minimum Group Size: Best kept as a pair.

• Tank Mates: Tetras, rasboras, barbs, corydoras, plecos, peaceful dwarf cichlids.

• Avoid: Very aggressive cichlids or fin-nipping fish.

✅ Do’s

• Provide caves – they love to hide and breed inside.

• Keep in pairs for natural behavior.

• Use planted or decorated tanks for a natural look.

❌ Don’ts

• Don’t overcrowd the tank.

• Don’t keep with large/aggressive fish.

• Don’t skip hiding spaces – they feel stressed.

⭐ Quick Tips

• One of the most beginner-friendly cichlids.

• Very easy to breed in aquariums.

• Peaceful, colorful, and perfect for community aquariums.