Kribensis 3.5cm

Kribensis

The Kribensis cichlid is an incredibly overlooked but downright beautiful African cichlid. Unlike most African cichlids that require alkaline water conditions, the kribensis can thrive in lower ph environments similar to those of South American cichlids. Because of this adaptation they often make for a great alternative to dwarf South American cichlids and still have vibrant colouration. The other great benefit to kribensis is that they stay fairly small, are easy to care for, and breed really easily which makes them a great fish for aquarists that are looking to enter the cichlid world. 

Kribensis Cichlids are mostly loved for their vibrant colouration Though as juveniles they are dull fish, as the kribensis cichlid matures its array of contrasting colours really comes out. Kribensis cichlids have an almost electric yellow base colour with two black lines which run from head to tail. The first line runs right across the lateral line of the fish whereas the other runs across the top of the fish. They also have a fiery colour gradient of reds, oranges, and yellows on the dorsal and tail fin with jet black spots. The Kribensis however is most recognized with the bright rose pink colour they develop on their underbelly which is most common in males. This pink almost radiates when the males are in spawning condition. 

Kribensis cichlids remain fairly small and only reach around 8-10 cm max which makes them a great fish for smaller aquariums. Breeding them in captivity is also extremely easy as they are the sort of fish that will inevitably breed as long as there is a male and female in a well-maintained aquarium. Males tend to be larger than females which are much brighter colours. They also have a pointed dorsal and ventral fin whereas females are more rounded. The Kribensis cichlid originally comes from the riverine areas of Africa with a relatively wide range spanning from Nigeria to Cameroon. 

Tank Recommendations for your Kribensis 

The kribensis cichlid is a small cichlid as males max out at around 10 cm whereas females reach 8 cm. Though kribensis are small fish, they are fairly territorial which means they do require space. The best minimum aquarium volume would be around 70 liters which could house a pair or trio of kribensis. 

Kribensis are nutritious diggers but they can be kept with aquarium plants as long as these plants are secured will in the substrate. Since they are soft water fish preferring a PH ranging from 6-7 it is best to use hardscape materials such as driftwood which will maintain this. The substrate is not a major concern as these fish will thrive in both sand and small grain gravel.

Suitable Tank Buddies

Kribensis cichlids can be kept in a community setting with other tank mates that can hold their own against the occasional display of aggression from the Kribensis. It would be best to ensure that the tank mates are not bottom dwelling as this is where the kribensis spend most of their time.

Usually Compatible

Larger-bodied tetras such as Congo and black widows. Inconspicuous species such as bristlenose plecos also seem to slip my the territorial radar of kribensis cichlids. 

Sometimes Compatible

Larger but peaceful South American cichlids such as Severums. The only concern here as these species may outcompete the smaller-bodied kribensis.

Rarely Compatible

Larger and aggressive species such as Oscars and any fish that the kribensis itself may predate on like neon tetras. 

Feeding your Kribensis

As almost all kribensis available in the aquarium hobby are bred in captivity, they should take to a wide range of aquarium foods. Kribensis actually have a small mouth so it is best to feed them a small sinking pellet or flake food along with supplementation of frozen food like blood worms and brine shrimp.