Easy to moderate
Kribensis Cichlid (Pelvicachromis pulcher)
24–27°C · pH 5.5–7.5 · 80L
£4.99
Blue form of the classic Kribensis — an easy, peaceful West African dwarf cichlid for community tanks from 80 litres. Best kept as a pair.
Adult size is the maximum length this species reaches at full maturity (scientific sources). The livestock you receive will be younger and smaller — pick a size variant above for the actual shipping size. Photos are AI-enhanced, so the animal may show subtle colour or marking differences.
Pelvicachromis pulcher blue
Common Krib Blue, Dwarf Rainbow bond and breed in male/female pairs. Buying a pair gives them the social structure they need — and you get a better price per fish.
Blue form of the classic Kribensis — an easy, peaceful West African dwarf cichlid for community tanks from 80 litres. Best kept as a pair.
Adult size is the maximum length this species reaches at full maturity (scientific sources). The livestock you receive will be younger and smaller — pick a size variant above for the actual shipping size. Photos are AI-enhanced, so the animal may show subtle colour or marking differences.
Cichlids are one of the most diverse fish families in the hobby. From tiny apistogrammas to massive oscars, this guide covers the basics of keeping them well.
Maintain these water conditions for optimal health and vibrant colors
Community-safe cichlids are rare enough that the Krib earned classic status decades ago — and the blue form adds a cool-toned twist to the West African favourite. Sold as the Common Krib Blue or Dwarf Rainbow, Pelvicachromis pulcher blue traces its roots to Nigeria and Cameroon and delivers proper cichlid behaviour in aquariums as small as 80 litres.
It is hard to overstate how easy this fish makes things. Husbandry is rated easy and the temperament genuinely peaceful, while adult size stays at a manageable 10 cm. Water demands are forgiving — 24–27 °C, pH 5.5–7.5 and 5–15 dGH, ranges most established communities already run, with the middle of each band the comfortable year-round target. It keeps to the lower level of the tank and coexists happily with tetras, barbs, Corydoras and similar peaceful community staples, and the 80-litre minimum leaves room for a proper community around the pair. Just two cautions apply: other territorial bottom-dwellers will be challenged over floor space, and very small fish are safer elsewhere once a pair starts breeding.
Keep it as a single pair and spawning may well happen whether you planned it or not — the rating is easy, and a cave or two is all the invitation a bonded pair needs. Outside spawning periods they remain mild-mannered community citizens; while guarding eggs and fry they will firmly police their corner of the tank. Offer pellets, flakes and frozen foods, and look forward to about five years of life.
If you want your first cichlid — or simply a bottom-dwelling character for an established community — this blue strain offers the famously easy Krib package in a less common colourway. Add a cave, order a pair, and let them do the rest. Live arrival guarantee included; transport is by licensed live-animal courier.
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