Pelvicachromis rubrolabiatus Care Guide
Pelvicachromis rubrolabiatus is a Guinean dwarf cichlid with red-lipped males. It is a soft-water cave spawner suited to planted West African setups.
Overview
Pelvicachromis rubrolabiatus is a West African dwarf cichlid described in 2004. The species name refers to the red lips of males. It belongs to the kribensis genus Pelvicachromis, a group of soft-water cave spawners. Females develop a pinkish belly when in condition.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Pelvicachromis
- Scientific name: Pelvicachromis rubrolabiatus
- Described: Lamboj, 2004
Habitat
The species is native to the Kolente River basin in Guinea, where it inhabits soft, acidic waterways flowing through forested areas. These streams are shaded and have gentle flow, and the fish do not appreciate vigorous water movement or harsh lighting.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 80 L (a 90 cm tank is recommended for a pair)
- Temperature: 22-26 °C (72-79 °F)
- pH: 6.0-7.0 (soft, below 6.0 favoured)
- GH: 2-12 °dGH
- Decor: caves and a sand or fine gravel substrate
- Lifespan: 4-6 years
Diet
The species is an omnivore and needs both green and meaty foods in its diet. A mix of quality prepared foods, frozen invertebrates and some vegetable matter is suitable. Feeding twice daily in modest amounts works well.
Compatibility
This species is more placid than relatives such as P. humilis and P. signatus, though it can become aggressive when spawning. It mixes well with tetras from the same region and can be kept in a carefully chosen community. Hard-water Rift-lake cichlids should be avoided.
Breeding
Like other Pelvicachromis, the species is a cave spawner that forms monogamous pairs. Both sexes tend the fry, with the female performing most of the egg-fanning. A sand or fine gravel substrate allows the pair to excavate pits while breeding.