Species profile
Pelvicachromis Taeniatus
Pelvicachromis taeniatus
Peaceful
Moderate care
90 L minimum aquarium
6–9 cm adult size
Bottom–mid
Can be kept singly
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Locality forms can differ strongly in colour; avoid selling mixed-locality stock as a named wild form.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
22–27 °C
pH
5.5–7.5
GH
2–12 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
1.4
Generally manageable outside breeding but strongly territorial around a cave and fry.
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
Low
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
90 L
Minimum footprint
80 × 35 cm
Accepted scientific name
Pelvicachromis taeniatus
Alternative names
Striped Kribensis
Native range
Coastal river systems of Cameroon and Nigeria; locality forms should not be mixed casually.
Natural habitat
Slow, structured West African waters. Provide sand, wood, plants and several cave options.
Diet & feeding
Quality sinking/cichlid foods, frozen/live invertebrates and plant-rich foods.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Females are smaller with a rounder belly and strong purple/pink breeding colour; males are larger with more extended fins.
Breeding
Monogamous cave spawner with biparental care; female usually tends eggs while male guards the surrounding territory.