Easy to intermediate
Chocolate Cherry Shrimp (Neocaridina davidi)
18–26°C · pH 6.5–8 · 30L
£13.99
The Nigerian Green Kribensis (Pelvicachromis taeniatus nig. green) is a peaceful, cave-spawning West African dwarf cichlid with striking striped patterning and easy breeding. A characterful community fish for a planted tropical tank. Buy online with tracked UK delivery.
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 taeniatus nig. green
Nigerian Green Kribensis bond and breed in male/female pairs — buying a pair gives them the social structure they need.
The Nigerian Green Kribensis (Pelvicachromis taeniatus nig. green) is a peaceful, cave-spawning West African dwarf cichlid with striking striped patterning and easy breeding. A characterful community fish for a planted tropical tank. Buy online with tracked UK delivery.
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
If you want a dwarf cichlid with real personality, strong pair bonding, and subtle colours that look even better in a settled, planted tank, the Nigerian Green Kribensis deserves a place on your shortlist. Sold here as Pelvicachromis taeniatus nig. green, this West African species is one of the most rewarding tropical fish a UK hobbyist can keep. It stays manageable at around 8 cm, lives up to 5 years with good care, and offers a rare mix of beauty and practicality: peaceful enough for many community setups, yet interesting enough for dedicated cichlid keepers. For aquarists looking to buy fish online or searching for a colourful kribensis for aquarium life without the size and aggression of larger cichlids, this striped dwarf cichlid is an excellent choice.
The Nigerian Green Krib, a Pelvicachromis taeniatus form sometimes grouped with other striped kribensis varieties, is popular because it combines fine striping, iridescent fin edging, and warm olive, gold and violet tones with straightforward care. It is a true tropical species, so a stable tropical fish temperature matters from day one. Our photos show the body striping, fin edging and belly colour that develop when a pair is settled. If you want a peaceful, cave-spawning dwarf cichlid UK keepers can breed at home, this is one of the best choices among striped Pelvicachromis available in the UK.
Pelvicachromis taeniatus belongs to the West African dwarf cichlid group rather than the Rift Lake cichlids many aquarists picture first when they hear "African cichlid". In the hobby it sits in a sweet spot between beginner-friendly kribs and more demanding dwarf cichlids. The species has been appreciated for decades for its pair bonding, cave spawning and striking sexual dimorphism, and the Nigerian Green form remains an accessible choice for aquarists who want something a little unusual without taking on specialist-only care. For broader background on keeping cichlids, see our cichlid care guide.
The Nigerian Green Kribensis originates in West Africa, with Pelvicachromis taeniatus populations and related regional forms associated with Nigeria and Cameroon. In the wild these fish inhabit slow-moving streams, creek margins and sheltered river edges where there is leaf litter, submerged roots, overhanging vegetation and plenty of cover. They are not open-water fish. They spend much of their time close to the bottom, weaving through structure, investigating crevices and defending a chosen cave once a pair forms.
Natural waters vary seasonally, but the fish generally thrive in soft to moderately hard freshwater with a slightly acidic to neutral reaction. For the ideal kribensis pH level, a practical home range of 6.0 to 7.5 works well, with many keepers seeing the best colour and breeding response around mildly acidic to neutral conditions. The species is best thought of as a planted, structured, calmer-water fish rather than a rock-bashing mbuna type.
This background explains a lot about its behaviour. In nature they are opportunistic omnivores, picking at small invertebrates, insect larvae, detritus and plant matter. They are also cave spawners, which is why meeting their cave requirements is so important in captivity. Hobbyists comparing the different regional Pelvicachromis taeniatus forms usually notice differences in colour intensity and pattern, but the broad habitat needs remain the same: warm, clean water, visual barriers and secure spawning sites.
Mimicking the natural habitat with shaded areas, wood, leaf-style cover and multiple caves does more than make the tank look good. It reduces stress, helps pairs settle faster, and often brings out stronger colour, cleaner stripes and more confident feeding behaviour.
A well-planned setup is the difference between a shy fish and a thriving display pair. While the taeniatus minimum tank size is 80 litres for a pair, treat that as the starting point rather than the ideal long-term footprint. An 80-litre aquarium works for a bonded pair, but if you want a proper community tank with dither fish, more floor space is better. A 90-120 litre setup gives you room for caves, sight breaks and compatible midwater species without crowding the pair.
For a pair, think in terms of territory rather than pure water volume. These fish use the lower half of the tank and need room to claim a cave and patrol around it. A practical taeniatus tank size for beginners is usually 90 litres or more, especially if you plan to keep compatible tank mates such as tetras or Corydoras. If you are building a planted display layout, extra width is more useful than extra height.
The recommended kribensis ideal temperature is 24-28°C, with many keepers finding 25-26°C a good everyday target. This aligns well with standard tropical fish temperature ranges for peaceful community species. Keep taeniatus temperature stable rather than chasing extremes. pH should sit between 6.0 and 7.5, while a taeniatus water hardness of 5-15 dGH is suitable. These are the core taeniatus water parameters to maintain. Although they can adapt, sudden swings are far more harmful than being slightly off the midpoint.
Many aquarists ask whether this is a strict taeniatus soft water fish. The answer is that it does very well in soft to moderately hard water, but consistency matters most. If your local supply is moderate and stable, there is usually no need to chase very soft water unless you are targeting selective breeding results.
Use a reliable filter that turns the tank over around 5-8 times per hour without blasting the substrate. Sponge filters, compact externals or well-baffled internals all work. The goal is clean, oxygenated water with gentle to moderate flow. Strong current can make cave-spawning fish feel exposed, while weak filtration quickly leads to detritus build-up around the bottom where this species lives.
Fine sand or smooth, rounded gravel is ideal. A darker substrate often improves confidence and makes the fish's gold and olive tones look richer in the aquarium. Sand also suits their natural foraging style. Avoid sharp gravel, which can trap waste and make bottom-feeding behaviour less natural.
Decor is not optional here. The most important part of the setup is meeting the taeniatus cave requirements. Provide at least two or three cave options per pair using coconut shells, ceramic caves, rock shelters or wood tunnels. The female often chooses the spawning site, and giving options reduces stress and territorial disputes.
Plants are highly beneficial. Choose hardy species that tolerate warm water and occasional digging nearby — Anubias, Java fern, Cryptocoryne and floating plants all work well. Dense planting around the edges creates visual barriers while leaving open swimming space in the middle. This species is an excellent candidate for a planted tank layout because the striped patterning contrasts beautifully against green foliage.
Always cycle the tank for 4-6 weeks before adding fish. A mature filter and stable biofilm on decor help dwarf cichlids settle quickly, feed confidently and show less territorial stress during the first month.
The kribensis diet is best described as omnivorous with a strong preference for protein-rich foods. In the wild they pick through the substrate and cover for insect larvae, tiny crustaceans, worms and edible organic matter. In the aquarium, successful kribensis feeding combines a quality staple with regular frozen or live-style treats.
A good small cichlid pellet or high-quality flake should form the base diet. Choose foods that sink slowly or hold in the lower water column, because this species naturally feeds around the bottom and lower middle of the tank. If you want tropical fish for beginners with more character than standard community fish, feeding is straightforward as long as you avoid oversized foods.
Supplement staples with frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp, daphnia and finely chopped mysis. These foods improve condition, support breeding and often intensify colour. A varied menu is especially useful when conditioning a kribensis breeding pair. If you keep them with active midwater species, make sure food reaches the lower levels rather than all being intercepted at the surface.
Treats should be used strategically. Two or three protein-rich feeds per week are enough for most adults. During conditioning for breeding, increase variety rather than simply increasing quantity. This is one of the simplest ways to keep a colourful kribensis for aquarium display in top condition. Avoid mammal meats, large dried insects and low-quality fillers that bloat fish or foul the water.
Feed adults twice daily in small portions that are consumed within 30-60 seconds. Juveniles can be fed three times daily in smaller amounts. This species is enthusiastic but should not have a swollen belly after meals. Overfeeding is one of the fastest ways to ruin water quality in a warm tropical fish tank.
| Time | Food | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Small cichlid pellet or quality flake | Only what is eaten in 30-60 seconds |
| Evening | Frozen brine shrimp, bloodworm or daphnia | Light pinch or small cube portion for the pair |
Overfeeding causes ammonia spikes, cloudy water and excess waste around caves and plants. In a warm tank this can trigger bacterial issues quickly. Feed lightly, siphon leftovers, and keep weekly water changes consistent.
Pelvicachromis taeniatus is one of the most attractive dwarf cichlids available to UK aquarists. Adults reach about 8 cm, with males usually longer and more elongated, while females stay smaller and deeper-bodied. The body shape is classic Pelvicachromis: compact but elegant, with a gently sloping head, extended dorsal fin and a rounded caudal area that shows pattern and colour beautifully.
The appeal lies in the mix of tones. A good specimen can show warm gold, cream, olive-brown and violet areas, often with fine striping and iridescent edging in the fins — which is why the fish is sold as a Striped Kribensis or striped dwarf cichlid. Females often develop the most intense belly colour when in breeding condition, while males usually show longer finnage and more extended patterning.
Shoppers often compare the different regional Pelvicachromis taeniatus forms. The various strains differ mainly in colour intensity and pattern balance, while temperament, size and care needs stay broadly similar. Our photos show the rich contrast you can expect when fish are settled in a darker, planted tank with stable water and a varied diet.
If you want to buy Pelvicachromis taeniatus UK, buy striped kribensis UK, or source a healthy specimen with strong colour potential, choose fish that are alert, feeding and showing clear finnage rather than simply the brightest juvenile in a dealer tank.
One reason this fish appears so often in searches for community tropical fish UK is that it is much more manageable than many cichlids. Outside breeding it is generally peaceful, especially in a properly structured tank. The main caution is territoriality around a cave or brood. That means the best taeniatus tank mates are species that use different levels of the aquarium and do not constantly invade the pair's chosen shelter.
Small to medium tetras, calm rasboras, Corydoras and Otocinclus are all sensible choices. They occupy the middle water and act as dither fish, helping shy cichlids feel secure. A pair of Nigerian Green Kribensis can work very well in a 100-litre-plus setup with a small shoal of tetras and a carefully observed group of Corydoras, provided there are multiple caves and enough floor space.
If you want to compare closely related fish, see Pelvicachromis Taeniatus «Dehane» - Striped Kribensis. For hobbyists browsing broader cichlid options, Guianacara Dacrya - South American Cichlid and Thorichthys Maculipinnis - Elliot'S Cichlid - show how temperament and tank scale change as you move into larger cichlid species.
Avoid aggressive cichlids, fin-nippers and other cave-spawning dwarf cichlids in smaller tanks. Also avoid very delicate shrimp colonies if breeding behaviour is expected, because even peaceful dwarf cichlids may hunt shrimplets. Bettas are not ideal tank mates in most cases — their long fins and slower movement can create stress or conflict around a territorial pair.
For an 80-litre species-led setup: one bonded pair of Nigerian Green Kribensis and no other bottom territories. For a 100-120 litre community: one pair plus 10-12 small tetras and six Corydoras, with heavy planting and multiple caves. This is a practical answer for shoppers planning a tropical fish starter combination and wondering whether a dwarf cichlid can fit into a peaceful display.
Larger and more aggressive Rift Lake species such as Yellow Elongatus Cichlid - Chindongo Elongatus, Aulonocara Sp Neon Red Calico Peacock, Kiriza Yellow Cichlid - Tropheus Moorii and Orange I Blunthead Cichlid - Tropheus are not suitable companions in typical home aquariums, due to different aggression levels, diet emphasis and water chemistry preferences.
| Species | Compatible? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tetras | ✅ Yes | Excellent midwater dither fish for a kribensis community tank |
| Corydoras | ✅ Yes | Peaceful bottom-dwellers; give them their own space away from the cave |
| Yellow Elongatus Cichlid - Chindongo Elongatus | ❌ Avoid | Too aggressive and unsuitable in temperament and setup style |
This species is a strong choice for keepers who want something more interesting than standard livebearers but easier than specialist dwarfs. It is one of the better answers to the question, “Are there cichlids suitable for a peaceful community?”
Always quarantine new arrivals for 2-4 weeks before adding them to a settled dwarf cichlid tank. This reduces disease risk and prevents a new fish from bringing parasites into the territory of an established pair.
Breeding is one of the biggest attractions of Pelvicachromis taeniatus. It is considered easy compared with many dwarf cichlids, which makes it a great step up from standard community fish. If you can provide stable water, a secure cave and a well-conditioned pair, you have a realistic chance of success. Many aquarists specifically seek a kribensis breeding pair because pair bonding and parental care are such rewarding behaviours to watch.
Use a dedicated 80-litre or larger breeding tank, or a calm community aquarium where the pair can hold a territory. The key taeniatus cave spawning trigger is privacy. Coconut caves, ceramic tubes and rock shelters all work well. This is where meeting the taeniatus cave requirements becomes essential. Keep temperature around 25-27°C, pH slightly acidic to neutral, and water very clean.
The female usually intensifies in colour first, especially around the belly, and begins to display near the chosen cave. The male responds with fin displays and patrol behaviour. Once the pair is ready, spawning occurs inside the cave, hidden from view. This is classic taeniatus cave spawning behaviour. During this period the pair may become more territorial, especially toward bottom dwellers.
Eggs are usually attached within the cave, and both parents participate in guarding the site. The female often stays closest to the eggs while the male defends the outer area. Hatching time depends on temperature but is generally a few days, with fry becoming free-swimming after the yolk sac is absorbed. Keep disturbance low and avoid major rescapes once spawning has happened.
Once fry are free-swimming, feed infusoria, powdered fry food and freshly hatched baby brine shrimp. The parents often herd the fry around the tank, which is one of the most enjoyable sights in dwarf cichlid keeping. Frequent small water changes help growth, but match temperature carefully. Quality rearing conditions matter more than speed.
The biggest issues are poor pair compatibility, too much disturbance and incorrect cave placement. If the fish ignore each other, add more sight breaks and improve conditioning foods. If eggs disappear, check for stress from tank mates. If fry numbers are low, review water quality and feeding. Compared with many dwarf cichlids, this species is far more practical to breed in an average home setup.
If you want to improve fry survival, place the cave so the entrance faces a planted or shaded area rather than open glass. This reduces visual stress and helps the pair feel secure enough to maintain strong parental care through the free-swimming stage.
Comparison matters because many aquarists looking at a Pelvicachromis taeniatus form are also considering other striped kribensis varieties or beginner dwarf cichlids. The Nigerian Green is often chosen by people who want the classic striped krib look in a slightly less common regional form, without stepping into highly delicate species.
| Feature | Nigerian Green Kribensis (this fish) | Apistogramma types |
|---|---|---|
| Max Size | About 8 cm | Often 5-8 cm depending on species |
| Temperament | Peaceful, territorial when breeding | Varies widely by species |
| Breeding Style | Cave spawner with strong parental care | Often cave spawner, sometimes more delicate fry care |
| Water Tolerance | Soft to moderate hardness (5-15 dGH) | Often prefers softer, more specific water |
| Best For | Balanced beauty and practicality | Specialist dwarf cichlid collections |
If you are weighing up this Nigerian Green Kribensis against an Apistogramma, the Pelvicachromis taeniatus is usually the easier all-rounder. If you are deciding between regional taeniatus forms, the choice comes down to preferred colour palette and availability. For many aquarists wanting a slightly less common dwarf cichlid that still behaves well in a community, this is a strong balance.
The right choice is not just about price. It is about receiving settled fish that are feeding, sexed as accurately as possible, and packed appropriately for UK delivery.
A healthy Nigerian Green Kribensis is alert, curious, well-balanced in the water and keen to feed. Fins should be open, the belly should not look pinched, and colours should strengthen as the fish settles. Prevention is far better than treatment — good water quality, stable temperature and low stress prevent most problems.
Look for clear eyes, intact fins, smooth breathing and confident exploration of caves and lower decor. A healthy specimen will show interest in food within a reasonable settling period and should not clamp fins or hide constantly. Females in condition often show especially rich belly colour.
Like many dwarf cichlids, they can suffer from white spot, bacterial fin damage, internal parasites and stress-related loss of appetite if water quality slips. Warm water speeds up both metabolism and pathogen reproduction, so neglected maintenance can become a problem quickly. New imports or stressed stock should always be observed carefully before joining a display tank.
First correct the environment: test ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, temperature and pH. Increase aeration if needed. Move affected fish to quarantine if symptoms are significant. Use targeted treatments rather than broad medication cocktails. Because many community tanks include snails or shrimp, always check compatibility before dosing.
Keep up weekly water changes of around 25-35%, vacuum detritus from around caves, and avoid overcrowding the bottom zone. Feed varied foods, maintain the recommended taeniatus water parameters, and do not mix them with aggressive tank mates. Stress can quickly dull colour and suppress immunity in any dwarf cichlid.
Never use copper-based medications in a tank containing shrimp or other sensitive invertebrates. Copper can be lethal to them, and unnecessary medication in a community setup often creates more problems than it solves.
Behaviour is one of the main reasons people fall in love with this species. They are active without being frantic, observant without being overly shy, and interactive in a way many small community fish are not. A settled pair will patrol the lower tank, inspect caves, sift the substrate and respond quickly to feeding time.
They are not schooling fish. The normal social unit is a pair, and that pair bond becomes especially obvious during breeding. Outside spawning they are usually calm enough for a mixed peaceful setup. During breeding they become more territorial but rarely as destructive as larger cichlids. This makes them a strong option for aquarists wanting a manageable Pelvicachromis species with visible natural behaviour.
To encourage the best behaviour, provide structure, caves and visual barriers. In bare tanks they can become nervous or defensive. In a well-designed planted aquarium they show much more natural confidence. This is one reason the species is often recommended to people moving on from generic tropical fish for beginners into more characterful fishkeeping.
When buying a fish like the Nigerian Green Kribensis, the difference between a good experience and a disappointing one often comes down to preparation before the fish ever reaches your tank. This is a distinctive West African dwarf cichlid, and the best specimens are the ones that have been allowed to settle, feed properly and show stable behaviour before sale. That matters whether you want to buy tropical fish UK, buy live fish online UK, or specifically source a healthy Pelvicachromis taeniatus with confidence rather than guesswork.
Our approach focuses on condition and transition. Fish are observed before dispatch, checked for feeding response, and prepared for travel in insulated packaging suited to the season. For colder months, heat support is used where appropriate, and all shipments are packed to reduce sloshing stress and temperature fluctuation. That is especially important for warm-water species sold as live tropical fish for sale UK by a licensed live-animal courier.
This listing also includes a species-specific care section covering setup, feeding, compatibility and breeding, so you can plan your planted dwarf cichlid setup before the fish arrive. Starting with healthy, properly prepared fish makes all the difference, whether this is your first Pelvicachromis or an addition to an established West African dwarf cichlid tank.
Ordering online can be a very safe option when fish are packed and handled correctly. Order your Nigerian Green Kribensis today with confidence if you want a peaceful, striking and genuinely rewarding dwarf cichlid for the home aquarium.
If you enjoy the look and behaviour of the Nigerian Green Kribensis, compare it with Pelvicachromis Taeniatus «Dehane» - Striped Kribensis for another beautifully patterned Pelvicachromis form. For larger but still characterful cichlids, Guianacara Dacrya - South American Cichlid and Thorichthys Maculipinnis - Elliot'S Cichlid - are worth a look. If you are browsing a wider freshwater fish collection, you can compare community-friendly dwarfs with more specialised African and Central American species before stocking your tank.
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