Pelvicachromis Taeniatus

Datasheet

General Description

The Pelvicachromis Taeniatus, commonly known as the Striped Kribensis, is a cichlid species that is easily distinguishable by its bright yellow upper lip, pronounced scales, and rounded caudal fin. With over a dozen available morphs, it is recommended not to crossbreed males and females to maintain the purity of the lines. The species can reach a maximum size of 8.0cm and is native to Nigeria and Cameroon where it inhabits still and slow-moving forest streams and rivers heavily vegetated.

Aquarium Setup

To house the Striped Kribensis, a minimum tank size of 71 litres is required, with various hiding spots such as clay pots, caves, roots, and driftwood. While plants are not mandatory, they provide additional coverage appreciated by the fish. The substrate should be fine gravel or sand since the species tends to excavate pits for breeding. Water conditions should maintain a hardness of 5-12°dH, a pH range of 5.0-7.5, and a temperature between 22-26°C. For a more detailed setup, refer to the dedicated table.

Behaviour

The Striped Kribensis is recommended for a general community tank but can become territorial, especially during breeding. It should not be kept with vigorous or large species, as it is typically shy and retiring. Suitable tankmates include small characins, barbs, danios, rasboras, Corydoras, gouramis, and Loricariids. When housed with other cichlids, such as West African Dwarves, providing enough space for territory formation is crucial. It is advised to keep the Striped Kribensis in pairs, requiring a large tank if more than one pair is present.

Feeding and Diet

The Striped Kribensis is an omnivorous species that accepts various foods; however, live and frozen varieties should constitute the majority of its diet. Offering a balanced diet of live, frozen, and dried foods ensures the fish's optimal health and development.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Breeding the Striped Kribensis is relatively easy as they are cave spawners that form monogamous pairs. Providing plenty of caves as potential spawning sites is essential for successful breeding. Males are larger with pointed dorsal and anal fins, while females develop a pink flush on their flanks when in spawning condition. It is crucial to monitor the pair closely during breeding, as aggression can occur, particularly when the fry become free-swimming.

Habitat and Distribution

Inhabiting forest streams and rivers in Nigeria and Cameroon, the Striped Kribensis prefers still to slow-moving waters that are heavily vegetated. This species thrives in such habitats, utilizing hiding spots and natural resources for breeding and foraging.