KRIBENSIS (PELVICACHROMIS PULCHER)

The common Kribensis Cichlid (Krib cichlid) is considered a great beginner cichlid because it can tolerate a range of water conditions and is one of the most popular of the cichlids. Kribensis Cichlids stay on the small side and are considerd a dwarf cichlid, reaching about 4 inches (10 cm) as adults.

They are can be very colorful even though they may not look that way in the tank at the store. They should color up nicely with good care. They develop a red or even a purple looking region on the stomach area. There is also an albino variety which is pictured below.

Although you’ll hear about folks keeping them in community type tank setups we would urge you to use caution if you plan on doing this. They can become very territorial when in breeding mode and will not tolerate tank mates in their territory.

Breeding the Kribensis Cichlid is fairly easy and if you’re interested in breeding something besides livebearers you might be interested in getting a pair of kribensis. They are fantastic parents and will look after their young. See below for more information on breeding them.

The Kribensis Cichlid needs a varied diet with a good flake food or cichlid pellet serving as their primary fish food. Supplement with live or frozen foods periodically. This becomes even more important if you want to breed them.

Regarding disease, most are now being farm raised but that doesn’t mean that they can’t contract something while passing through the various holding tanks before reaching your tank. Use a quarantine tank for a few weeks before introducing them into your aquarium.