The Kribensis, often simply called “Krib” by many fishkeepers, was introduced into the aquarium trade in the 1950s. This fish is known by a number of other common names like the Common Krib, Pink Krib, Purple Cichlid, Rainbow Krib, Rainbow Cichlid, Pink Kribensis Cichlid, Bone Back, and Tilapia. In Germany it is called the 'King Cichlid' and the 'Magnificent Purple Cichlid'. Most specimens in the hobby are captive bred as wild caught fish are only occasionally imported. Albino varieties have also been bred for several decades. Description The Kribensis is a small colorful fish. The body is moderately compressed and elongated with a continuous dorsal fin and a fan shaped caudal fin. This is a sexually dimorphic cichlid, the males grow larger and develop pointed dorsal, caudal and anal fins. Females will show a characteristic purple or red colored belly when spawning and their bodies are more rounded than the males. Cichlids have spiny rays in the back parts of the anal, dorsal, pectoral, and pelvic fins to help discourage predators. The front part of these fins are soft and perfect for precise positions and effortless movements in the water as opposed to fast swimming.
