Striped Kribensis

• ExerciseModerate

  An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.

• GroomingAttentive tank care

  Sensitive to water quality — stay on top of testing and maintenance.

• Living spaceNano-tank friendly

  Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.

• Owner experienceSome experience helps

  A little know-how makes life smoother.

• Commitment5–8 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Ich (white spot) · Fin rot · Swim bladder disorder

Pelvicachromis taeniatus is a West African dwarf cichlid from streams in Cameroon and Nigeria, reaching about 8 to 9 cm for males and 6 cm for females. It is a close relative of the familiar kribensis but a distinct species, sold by collection point as Nigeria Red, Moliwe, Dehane and others. As in its relatives, the female is the brighter sex and displays to the male, a genuine reversal of the usual pattern. A pair needs 80 litres or more at 24-27C, with softer, gently acidic to neutral water, pH 6.0 to 7.5, planted, dimly lit and supplied with several small caves such as a half coconut shell or a clay pot. Feed frozen cyclops, brine shrimp, daphnia and a good micro pellet. It is peaceful in normal life and a fair community fish for a soft-water tank, but a spawning pair claims and defends the floor around its cave and will chase bottom-dwellers away for the duration. Buy a bonded pair or a group of young fish, keep only one pair per small tank, and avoid mixing it with the common kribensis, since the two will hybridise.

• How active is a Striped Kribensis?

  Moderate. An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.

• How much maintenance does a Striped Kribensis need?

  Attentive tank care. Sensitive to water quality — stay on top of testing and maintenance.

• What tank size does a Striped Kribensis need?

  Nano-tank friendly. Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.

• Is a Striped Kribensis a good fit for first-time owners?

  Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.

• How long do Striped Kribensis live?

  5–8 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Striped Kribensis?

  Keep an eye out for Ich (white spot), Fin rot, Swim bladder disorder. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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