What makes the Lobe Kribensis different from other P. taeniatus?

The Lobe form originates from the Lobe River in Cameroon and displays unique colour patterning specific to that geographic population. Each P. taeniatus locality (Dehane, Nigerian Green, Nigerian Red, Molive, Lobe, etc.) has developed distinct markings through geographic isolation.

How do I breed Pelvicachromis taeniatus Lobe?

Provide caves or coconut shells. A bonded pair will spawn inside the cave. Both parents guard the eggs and fry. Fry are tiny and should be fed baby brine shrimp or micro worms. Breeding is straightforward in established pairs with suitable spawning sites.

Can I mix different P. taeniatus locality variants?

Not recommended in the same tank as they will readily hybridise, destroying the unique locality genetics. Keep each variant in a separate tank if you wish to preserve the authentic Lobe River colour pattern.

Are Lobe Kribensis good for beginners?

Yes — all P. taeniatus varieties are easy-care fish suitable for beginners. They tolerate a range of water conditions, accept all common foods, and are peaceful in community tanks. A perfect first dwarf cichlid.

Pelvicachromis taeniatus

Pelvicachromis Taeniatus Lobe - Rare Locality Variant of the Striped Kribensis

Name: Pelvicachromis Taeniatus Lobe - Rare Locality Variant of the Striped Kribensis
Brand: Tropical Fish Co
SKU: N007
Price: 11.99 GBP
Availability: PreOrder

Beginner Friendly

Peaceful

£11.99In Stock

The Pelvicachromis taeniatus Lobe is a rare locality variant of the Striped Kribensis from the Lobe River region of Cameroon. Each P. taeniatus locality develops unique colour patterns, and the Lobe form is prized by dwarf cichlid collectors for its distinctive patterning. A peaceful, easy-care cave spawner that thrives in planted community aquariums.

African Dwarf CichlidCave SpawnerLobe KribensisPelvicachromis Taeniatus LobeRare Cichlidsite:tropical-fish-coStriped Kribensis

Care at a Glance

Scientific Name

Pelvicachromis taeniatus

Adult Size

8 cm

Lifespan

5 years

Care Level

Easy

Temperament

Peaceful

Temperature

24–28°C

pH Range

6–7.5

Hardness

5–15 dGH

Minimum Tank

80L

Diet

Flakes, pellets, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp

Water Parameters

Maintain these water conditions for optimal health and vibrant colors

Temperature

24–28°C

24°CIdeal Range28°C

pH Level

6–7.5

6Ideal Range7.5

Water Hardness

5–15 dGH

5 dGHIdeal Range15 dGH

The Pelvicachromis taeniatus “Lobe” is a rare locality variant of the Striped Kribensis from the Lobe River region of Cameroon. Each P. taeniatus locality develops unique colour patterns due to geographic isolation, and the Lobe form is prized by dwarf cichlid collectors for its distinctive patterning and colouration. Like all P. taeniatus, it is a peaceful cave spawner ideal for planted community aquariums.

Care at a Glance

Parameter	Value
Scientific Name	Pelvicachromis taeniatus
Family	Cichlidae
Origin	West Africa (Lobe River, Cameroon)
Care Level	Easy
Temperament	Peaceful
Adult Size	8 cm
Minimum Tank	80 litres
Temperature	24 – 28 °C
pH	6.0 – 7.5
Hardness	5 – 15 dGH
Diet	Flakes, pellets, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp
Lifespan	Up to 5 years

Origin & Natural Habitat

The Lobe variant originates from the Lobe River system in Cameroon. P. taeniatus has a wide distribution across West Africa, with each river system producing genetically distinct populations with unique colour patterns. The Lobe River flows through coastal rainforest, and fish from this region inhabit slow-moving, shaded stretches with soft substrates and abundant leaf litter.

Tank Setup

Provide at least 80 litres with caves, coconut shells, or clay pots for spawning. Maintain 24 to 28 °C, pH 6.0 to 7.5, hardness 5 to 15 dGH. Dense planting with open sandy areas and subdued lighting replicates their natural forest stream habitat. Leaf litter (Indian almond leaves or oak leaves) adds authenticity and provides beneficial tannins.

Feeding Guide

Omnivorous; feed quality flakes, micro pellets, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia. A varied diet including live foods brings out the best colouration and encourages breeding behaviour. Feed 2-3 times daily in small portions.

Compatible Tank Mates

Peaceful community fish; excellent with tetras, rasboras, Corydoras, and Otocinclus. Avoid other cave-spawning dwarf cichlids in the same tank. Do not mix with other P. taeniatus variants if you wish to preserve locality genetics.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co?

Our Pelvicachromis taeniatus Lobe are genuine locality-correct specimens with the distinctive Lobe River patterning. A rare find for dwarf cichlid collectors seeking authentic locality variants. Live arrival guaranteed with UK delivery.

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Hand-packed with oxygen bags, poly box, heat pack

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Replacement or refund — just tell us the same day

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How your fish gets to you

Dispatched Tuesday, delivered Wednesday — every order tracked and insured.

Dispatched on Tuesdays by a UK courier legally licensed to carry live animals. You’ll get a tracking number on dispatch morning and live updates through the afternoon.
Hand-packed in an insulated poly box with oxygen bags and (Oct–Apr) 40-hour heat packs. £20 flat rate covers any number of fish.
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