Date:Fri 6/28/2024 6:02 PM
Happy Friday, everyone! Today's fish of the day is the kribensis cichlid!
The kribensis cichlid, scientific name Pelvicachromis pulcher, is known in the aquarium trade as a popular freshwater fish. In the aquarium trade it is known by multiple names, krib, common krib, rainbow krib, rainbow cichlid, purple cichlid, etc. Outside of the aquarium trade, these fish are native along southern Nigeria, and coastal Cameroon, living in warm waters and semi acidic waters. There is also a non native population that has also been found within Hawaii, and is predicted to have been started by released pets. This species inhabits fast moving waters and lives only where there is dense vegetation, although they can survive in shallow and still waters, or even brackish conditions. In the wild the kribensis has been observed creating small holes under plants, or living within underwater caves blocked by vegetation.
The diet of the kribensis cichlid consists of worms, crustaceans, and small insects, although in the wild a large part of their diet is made up of algae, and other surrounding plants. This diet allows them to get to sizes between 3-5 inches in length. Male kribensis grow about 12.5 cm (4.9 inches) and females, who are smaller, grow about 3 inches in length. They are predated on by African Pike, tigerfish, and nile perch, which share significant overlap in the wild.
Within the kribensis cichlid there is significant sexual dimorphism. Male fish are larger than female fish, alone with having a more rounded appearance, along with lacking the bright coloration. Breeding is done in holes that are produced under plants or in natural cave formations, so long as they are small and partially hidden. Eggs, when layed are adhesive, and form in rows along the upper surface of the cave, which are then brooded by the female for 20-30 days. After this, both male and female kribensis care for the fry, males acting as territorial guardians to drive away predators, and females feeding the young.
Have a wonderful Friday, everyone!