A vibrant and highly popular dwarf cichlid native to the slow-moving rivers of West Africa. Unlike Rift Lake African cichlids, they prefer soft, slightly acidic water and densely planted tanks. They are generally peaceful in a community tank but become fiercely territorial and aggressive when breeding, often digging pits in the substrate and claiming the bottom zone. They are cave spawners and require hiding spots like driftwood or coconut shells.
Kribensis At a Glance
Kribensis Tank Requirements
Will Kribensis fit in your tank?
Care guides tell you what Kribensis needs, the next question is whether your tank can safely provide it. Test Kribensis against your tank size, maintenance needs, and the fish you already keep before you buy.
Useful setup supplies
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Kribensis Water Parameters
Water care products
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Kribensis Temperament & Compatibility
Kribensis Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Unsexed / Juvenile
Typically sold in stores at 3-5cm before sexual characteristics fully develop. At this stage, they are relatively peaceful bottom dwellers that will readily form pairs as they mature.
Same care requirements as the base species
Also known as: Standard, Juvenile Krib
Male
Noticeably larger and more elongated than females, featuring pointed dorsal and anal fins, often with distinct eye-spots (ocelli) on the dorsal fin and tail. Highly territorial when protecting a breeding site.
Differs in 2 traits from base species
Also known as: Male
Female
Smaller, stockier, and arguably more colorful than the males. Females develop a brilliant, deep cherry-red or purple belly, especially when conditioning to spawn. They take the lead in initiating courtship.
Differs in 2 traits from base species
Also known as: Female, Red Belly Krib
Kribensis Care Guide Summary
The Kribensis, scientifically known as Pelvicachromis pulcher, belongs to the Cichlids - African family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 10 cm and have a fusiform body shape with a moderate growth rate. Classified as semi-aggressive, this species primarily occupies the bottom and mid-level zones of the aquarium and produces a high level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Kribensis requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 75 litres and a tank length of at least 60 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 24°C and 28°C, with a pH range of 5.5–7.5 and a general hardness of 4–15 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred.
Due to its specialist needs, the Kribensis is best suited for fishkeepers who can provide a carefully planned setup. This species is available in 3 varieties: Unsexed / Juvenile, Male, and Female. Each may differ slightly in size, temperament, or care needs, so it is worth checking the specific requirements of the variety you plan to keep.
Kribensis Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Kribensis, a moderate water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the bottom and mid-level zones, the aquarium layout should prioritise open swimming space in the centre of the tank for free movement and sufficient floor space with hiding spots among rocks, wood, or dense planting. Useful additions include a sand substrate to accommodate their sifting behaviour, driftwood, which can serve as both a hiding place and a dietary supplement, shells for breeding and shelter, and dense planting to provide cover, break sightlines, and reduce stress. Keepers should note that expect substrate disturbance, so lightweight décor should be secured.
Kribensis Compatibility Notes
Classified as semi-aggressive, the Kribensis is adaptable and can be kept singly or in a small group, offering flexibility when planning a community tank. When choosing tankmates, ornamental shrimp are not safe companions, conspecific aggression can be intense, especially in smaller tanks, and territorial behaviour may cause issues if hiding spots or floor space are limited. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the bottom and mid-level zones can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.
Kribensis Recommended Tank Sizes
Standard aquarium sizes that meet the minimum volume and length requirements for Kribensis.
20 Gallon High
20 Gallon Long
29 Gallon Standard
30 Gallon Breeder
36 Gallon Bowfront
40 Gallon Breeder
Show 17 more tank sizes
Kribensis Feeding & Diet Considerations
The Kribensis will hunt and eat ornamental shrimp, making it unsuitable for shrimp-focused setups and will eat fry, so breeding efforts in the same tank are unlikely to succeed.
Feeding products
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Frequently Asked Questions About Kribensis
How big does Kribensis get?
Kribensis (Pelvicachromis pulcher) typically reaches a maximum adult size of approximately 10 cm. They have a fusiform body shape and a moderate growth rate.
What tank size does Kribensis need?
A minimum aquarium volume of 75 litres and a tank length of at least 60 cm are recommended for Kribensis. This ensures enough swimming space and helps maintain stable water conditions.
What water parameters does Kribensis need?
Kribensis thrives in freshwater only conditions with a temperature range of 24–28°C, a pH between 5.5 and 7.5, and a general hardness of 4–15 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred.
Is Kribensis peaceful or aggressive?
Kribensis is classified as semi-aggressive with an aggression score of 6 out of 10. They can work in community setups but may clash with certain tankmates.
Can Kribensis live alone?
Yes, Kribensis can be kept singly or in a group. They are flexible and adapt well to both setups.
Is Kribensis safe with shrimp?
No. Kribensis is known to eat ornamental shrimp and is not recommended for shrimp tanks. Even larger shrimp species like Amano Shrimp may be at risk.
Does Kribensis have any special tank requirements?
Yes. Kribensis benefits from sand (sifters), driftwood (digestion/hiding), shells (breeding/hiding), and plants - densely covered in the aquarium. These features help replicate their natural habitat and promote overall health and well-being.
Plants That Suit Kribensis
These plants pair well with Kribensis based on shared water preferences, layout fit, and how likely they are to hold up in the same aquarium.
Afzel's Anubias
Anubias afzelii
Anubias Barteri
Anubias barteri
Christmas Moss
Vesicularia montagnei
Congo Anubias
Anubias heterophylla
Coral Pelia
Riccardia chamedryfolia
Dwarf Buce
Bucephalandra pygmaea
Fish Similar to Kribensis
African Butterfly Cichlid
Anomalochromis thomasi
A peaceful, colorful dwarf cichlid from West Africa. Unlike many cichlids, it is plant-safe and generally suitable for community tanks. It is famous in the hobby as an efficient biological control for pest snails.
Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid
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A highly popular and vibrant dwarf cichlid native to the Amazon basin. Named for the male's flamboyant, crest-like dorsal fin. They are cave-spawners that require a fine sand substrate (which they sift through their gills) and plenty of hiding spots. While generally peaceful in community tanks, they become fiercely territorial when breeding.
Panda Dwarf Cichlid
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Three-striped Dwarf Cichlid
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Dwarf Flag Cichlid
Laetacara curviceps
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Checkerboard Cichlid
Dicrossus filamentosus
A striking, slender South American dwarf cichlid known for its distinct black checkerboard pattern along its flanks. Unlike many cichlids, they are exceptionally peaceful community fish. They are strict blackwater species, requiring very soft, acidic water, sand substrate, and leaf litter to thrive.