The Ocellated Kribensis (Pelvicachromis subocellatus) is a small, vibrant African dwarf cichlid native to the slow-moving rivers and floodplains of West Africa, specifically Nigeria, Gabon, and the Congo. It is distinct from the common Kribensis (P. pulcher) by its shorter, deeper body and the lighter spotting on the upper part of the caudal fin.
Key Characteristics & Identification
Size: Males reach approximately 8–10 cm (3–4 inches), while females are slightly smaller at 6.5–8 cm (2.5–3 inches).
Appearance: Often displays olive-yellow body tones. Females are particularly striking when in breeding condition, developing a deep purple or cherry-red belly.
Common Morphs: Popular aquarium variants include the 'Matadi' and 'Moanda' forms.
Lifespan: Typically around 5 years.
Aquarium Care
To keep these cichlids healthy, their environment should mimic their natural vegetated habitats:
Tank Size: A minimum of 60–80 litres (approx. 20 gallons) for a single pair.
Water Parameters:
Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F).
pH: 5.5–7.5 (adaptable, but acidic water often preferred for breeding).
Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (4–18°H).
Setup: Use a soft sand substrate for sifting and provide plenty of hiding spots like caves, coconut shells, and dense plants.
Diet: Omnivorous. They thrive on a mix of high-quality pellets, frozen or live foods (brine shrimp, bloodworms), and occasional vegetable matter.
Temperament & Breeding
Compatibility: Generally peaceful community fish that can live with tetras, barbs, and rasboras. However, avoid small bottom-dwellers like Corydoras, as they may be bullied during spawning.
Breeding Behavior: They are cave spawners. The female typically lays 50–300 eggs and guards them while the male defends the outer territory.
Gender Influence: Interestingly, water pH can influence the sex of the fry; acidic water (pH <6.0) often leads to more males, while alkaline water results in more females.
SKU: RBM
