Introduction
Kribensis, often called shortly the kribs, are scientifically known as Pelvicachromis
Pulcher. Its name has been derived from the three Latin words “Pelva”
meaning abdomen; “chormis” meaning color and “pulcher” meaning beautiful. They
have got their name for their most special feature that is when in breeding
condition both the male and the female of the monogamous pair displays a
vibrant cherry red/pink color on their abdominal area. This fish has a shy but semi-aggressive
temperament and belongs to the dwarf cichlid (pronounced as sick-lid) family.
Kribensis are originated from western African belt consisting of the Ethiop River
of the Niger
delta.
Water conditions, tank setup
and care
Kribs are naturally able to adapt a varying range of water parameters as
they comes from area which varies from acidic to alkaline and soft to
moderately hard waters. A preferred pH range is 6.5-7.5. They can also adapt to
a range of temperature of around 25-32 degree Celsius. A preferred temperature
is 28-30 degree Celsius. The kribs are basically cave-dwellers so they require
a lot of hiding spaces and cave like structures in their tank. Addition of live
or artificial plants is highly appreciated by them and will equally reward you
with their stunning burst of lively colors. Kribensis can be kept in a
community tank with fishes of the same size or slightly bigger. Fishes with flowing
fins like betta and angelfish are prone to being bullied and nipped. They
usually like to stay at the bottom and mid level of the tank, thus it is
advised to avoid any other cave-dwellers to avoid harsh competition over the
tank bed and cave superiority. If you intend to have a species tank and house
more than one pair of kribs, it is highly recommended that you add more dense
caves so that each pair has its own cave and not fight for a territory. Such
fights can be lethal at times. Use fine gravel as they love to dig small pits,
often just beside their territorial cave, so rest or guard their caves. They
might nip on plant leaves or dig near the planted area but are not likely to
harm or uproot any plants.
Food for your Kribensis
Kribensis are omnivores and will readily accept dry foods that are
available in our LFS (Local Fish Store). As for any other fish, a varied diet
is always expected. Live food, such as tubifex worms, daphnia, infusoria and
mosquito larvae are also accepted by them. Home-made and processed food or
dried fish can also be fed.
Sexual Dimorphism
The males are longer in length (maximum 4 inch) and slimmer, while the
females are shorter in length (maximum 3.5 inch) and plumper with a convex
belly. Females might start to display the pinkish tint on their belly when they
are filling up with eggs. Males have a sharp and pointy end of their dorsal fin
whereas the females have a round and smooth dorsal fin.
Breeding Kribs
Kribensis are cave spawners. They lay there eggs inside or on the top of
their territorial cave. They prefer slightly acidic water, but can also be bred
in slightly alkaline to neutral waters. They tend to produce around 100-200
eggs and increasing with maturity till they reach their infertile age. The
kribensis are well known for their protecting parenting behaviors. At this
point they usually become very aggressive, guarding the eggs and will most of
the time find success in protecting and raising the fries by themselves.
Although at the very first few spawns, they might devour on their brood due to
being scared or simply not knowing what they should do. With time and proper
care, this problem can be easily solved.
Conclusion
Like
any other fish, kribensis likes neat and clean water with no or very minute
fluctuations in the water parameters. They are overall a fine species to be a
part of a tank. With proper and devoted care, this fish can be enormously
rewarding. With gratitude and wishes, Happy Fish-keeping.