Nigerian Red Kribensis
Nigerian Red Kribensis (Pelvicachromis taeniatus) is a close relative of the standard Kribensis with distinctly different and arguably even more spectacular coloration. Males display rich red to deep crimson fins and belly accents, while females show vivid pink-red coloration that rivals any freshwater fish for sheer intensity — particularly when breeding.
Feeding & Care Tip: Hikari Micro Pellets make an excellent daily staple. Supplement 2–3× per week with Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms or Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp to enhance coloration and trigger breeding behavior. Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily.
Kribensis are West African forest stream fish inhabiting soft, slightly acidic to neutral water — completely different from the hard alkaline requirements of Malawi and Tanganyika cichlids. A planted aquarium with soft slightly acidic to neutral water, driftwood, leaf litter, and caves creates the ideal environment. They are one of the most community-friendly cichlids available.
Keep as a pair. Cave spawner with the same devoted biparental care as the standard Kribensis. Provide caves, coconut shells, or flower pots. Females intensify in color dramatically when breeding — the red coloration becomes extraordinarily vivid during brood care. Slightly more demanding of water quality than Pelvicachromis pulcher.
Native to river systems in Nigeria — the Niger River drainage and associated forest streams. The Nigerian Red Kribensis is for aquarists who already love the standard Krib and want to explore the genus further. The intensified red coloration — particularly in breeding females — is extraordinary.
Care & Ideal Parameters
| Difficulty | Easy — Moderate |
| Temperament | Peaceful — community dwarf cichlid |
| Typical Adult Size | 3.5 inches (9 cm) |
| Min. Group Size | Pair — 1 male to 1 female |
| Ideal Temp | 75–82°F (24–28°C) |
| Ideal pH | 6.0–7.0 |
| Ideal GH | 2–12 dGH |
| Ideal KH | 1–6 dKH |
| Staple Food | Hikari Micro Pellets |
| Treat / Supplement | Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms, Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp |
| Origin | Nigeria, Niger River drainage and forest streams |
| Notes | More intensely red than standard Kribensis. Females extraordinarily vivid when breeding. Soft slightly acidic water important. Cave spawner — biparental care. |
