Nigerian Red Kribensis (Pelvicachromis taeniatus) Small (locally bred)

Habitat and Distribution:

• The Nigerian Red Kribensis inhabits still and slow-moving forest streams and rivers, often heavily vegetated.
• Its maximum standard length is up to 3.2" for males and 2.4" for females. 

Aquarium Considerations:

• For a single pair, a tank size of 24″ x 15″ x 12″  (approximately 71 liters) is suitable.
• Provide plenty of hiding places, such as clay pots, caves, roots, and driftwood.
• While plants are not essential, they offer additional cover.
• Use a sand or fine gravel substrate, as these fish excavate pits during breeding.

Water Conditions:

• Maintain the following parameters:
  • Temperature: 72-79°F (22-26°C)
  • pH: 5.0-7.5
  • Hardness: 5-12°H

Diet:

• The Nigerian Red Kribensis accepts various foods but prefers live and frozen varieties.
• High-quality fish foods are recommended.

Behavior and Compatibility:

• Suitable for community tanks,but note that they become territorial during breeding.
• Avoid very vigorous or large species.
• Compatible tankmates include small characins, barbs, danios, rasboras, Corydoras, gouramis, and Loricariids.
• It can coexist with other cichlids (West African Dwarves), but ample space is essential for territory formation.

Sexual Dimorphism:

• Males are larger and develop pointed dorsal and anal fins.
• Females exhibit a pink flush on their flanks during spawning and have a rounder body shape.
• Unlike most Pelvicachromis species, taeniatus males rival females in terms of color.

Reproduction:

• Relatively easy. They are cave spawners.
• Monogamous pairs form naturally when young fish are grown together.
• Provide plenty of caves as potential spawning sites.