All fish / Cichlidae

Striped Kribensis

Pelvicachromis taeniatus

Also known as striped krib, taeniatus, nigerian red krib, moliwe krib, lobe krib, kienke krib, dehane krib, bandkribensis, ペルヴィカクロミス・タエニアトゥス, 条纹红肚凤凰, 彩虹鲷

This small West African dwarf cichlid has a dark stripe running along its body. Females have a bright red or violet belly, and many collecting locations such as Moliwe, Nigeria Red and Kienke differ in colour. Keepers like it for its colour, interesting pair behaviour and modest size.

Care at a glance

Care level

Moderate

Temperament

Semi

Adult size

7 cm

Temperature

22 to 26 °C

pH

5 to 7

Smallest tank

80 litres

Keep as

One pair, or a male with a female

Diet

Omnivore: quality pellets and flakes, frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp and daphnia

Swims

Bottom of the tank

Lifespan

5 to 8 years

Water

Freshwater

Wild range

West Africa: coastal rivers of Nigeria, Cameroon and Benin

Breeding

It spawns in caves. The female guards the eggs while the male defends the territory, and both parents then lead the free-swimming fry. It breeds readily in soft, slightly acidic water, and the pH can affect the sex ratio of the fry.

Good to know

Pairs turn territorial when breeding and may attack other bottom dwellers, so give the tank plenty of caves and cover. Keep each location form separate so the strains stay pure.