Species profile
Kribensis
Pelvicachromis pulcher
Semi aggressive
Easy care
100 L minimum aquarium
6–10 cm adult size
Bottom–mid
Can be kept singly
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Adaptable West African dwarf cichlid. Provide several caves, sand or fine substrate and enough floor space for breeding territories.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
24–28 °C
pH
5–8
GH
Up to 20 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low–moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Can be kept singly
Tank zone
Bottom–mid
Territory level
Moderate
Predation risk
Shrimp fry
Bioload factor
1.5
Often suitable for a robust peaceful community outside breeding, but a pair guarding fry can become surprisingly forceful. Do not assume shrimp or tiny fry are safe.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
Yes
Digs substrate
Yes
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
100 L
Minimum footprint
80 × 35 cm
Accepted scientific name
Pelvicachromis pulcher
Alternative names
Krib, Rainbow Krib
Native range
Southern Nigeria and coastal Cameroon.
Natural habitat
Occurs in slow to moderate lowland waters with cover. In aquaria provide caves, roots/wood, plants and gentle-to-moderate circulation.
Diet & feeding
Feed a varied small-cichlid diet including quality pellets/flakes, frozen invertebrates and plant/detrital components.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Males are larger and more elongate with pointed fin extensions; females are smaller, deeper-bodied and develop a strong red-purple belly when mature.
Breeding
Cave-spawning biparental cichlid. The female usually tends eggs inside the cave while both parents subsequently shepherd and defend fry.