Rainbow Kribensis – Colorful Dwarf Cichlid for Community Aquariums

Rainbow Kribensis – Colorful Dwarf Cichlid for Community Aquariums

The Rainbow Kribensis (Pelvicachromis pulcher) is a beautifully colored West African dwarf cichlid known for its shimmering rainbow hues and peaceful personality. With deep purples, reds, and yellows, these small cichlids bring a splash of color and lively behavior to any freshwater setup.

Unlike many cichlids, Kribensis are relatively peaceful and do well in community aquariums—especially when given caves or driftwood to claim as territory. During breeding, males and females display even brighter coloration, making them a favorite among aquarists looking for beauty and activity in one compact fish.

Care Information:

• Scientific Name: Pelvicachromis pulcher
• Common Name: Rainbow Kribensis, Krib Cichlid
• Origin: West Africa (Niger & Cross River Basins)
• Temperament: Semi-peaceful; territorial during spawning
• Adult Size: 3–4 inches
• Diet: Omnivore – flakes, pellets, frozen foods, and blanched vegetables
• Tank Size: 29+ gallons recommended (pair or small group)
• Water Parameters:
• Temperature: 75–80°F
• pH: 6.0–7.5
• Hardness: Soft to moderate

Why You’ll Love Them:

✅ Brilliant rainbow coloration with deep reds and purples
✅ Peaceful for a cichlid species
✅ Great for planted and community tanks
✅ Fascinating pair-bonding and parental care behaviors

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Q: Are Rainbow Kribensis aggressive?
A: Generally peaceful, but pairs may defend their cave or territory during breeding.

Q: Can Kribensis live in community tanks?
A: Yes! They do well with small tetras, rasboras, Corydoras, and other non-aggressive fish.

Q: What do they eat?
A: They’re omnivores—offer a mix of quality flakes, sinking pellets, frozen bloodworms, and veggie-based foods.

Q: How can I tell males from females?
A: Females have rounder bodies and bright red bellies, while males are larger with extended fins.

Q: Do they need caves?
A: Yes—Kribensis love hiding and spawning in caves, driftwood, or rock structures.

Q: Can they live with shrimp or snails?
A: Adults may nip at shrimp, especially during breeding; snails are generally safe.