Hey everyone,
I've got a pair of Kribenisis doing well in their new 20 gallon breeder after some trouble in my community tank. They're pretty low-key, which is fine by me. I was thinking of adding some dither fish, but I'm not sure if that's a good idea considering the male's aggression towards my Cory's.
Those two are definitely not tankmates - trust me on that one. I was thinking maybe some Rummy Nose tetras would work, but I don't want them to get picked on by my Kribs. What do you all think?
Hope you're all having a great day.
dithering for kribensis
Re: dithering for kribensis
If you're looking to breed your Kribensis, I'd say leave them be and skip the dither fish.
For bottom-dwelling cichlids like my Kribs, it's generally best to avoid adding dither fish that inhabit the lower or mid-levels of the tank. Fish like catfish, loaches, or tetras that live in the bottom half just tend to become cichlid fodder - they usually end up meeting an untimely demise.
For bottom-dwelling cichlids like my Kribs, it's generally best to avoid adding dither fish that inhabit the lower or mid-levels of the tank. Fish like catfish, loaches, or tetras that live in the bottom half just tend to become cichlid fodder - they usually end up meeting an untimely demise.
Re: dithering for kribensis
Thanks coltin, really appreciate the advice. My Kribs are doing fantastic, constantly digging and making themselves at home. The female's getting this gorgeous big red belly, I'm stoked to see if they'll start a family. I've gotta say, Kribs have always been my absolute fave fish. Since the move to the 20 gallon, the male's color has transformed - he's now this stunning dark blue grey with some truly amazing hues.
Re: dithering for kribensis
The key with dither fish is to have a fast surface dweller that can dodge the Cichlids. However, this fish needs to be somewhat of a nuisance to the breeding pair. The threat of these dithers as potential fry predators can actually bring the Cichlids together. A classic tactic that works both in human politics and in managing a fish tank - unite against a common enemy.
If you do decide to go this route, which I think is a bit of a gamble in a 20-gallon tank, avoid using skittish fish like Rummy Nose tetras. With dithers, you're essentially prioritizing the Cichlids over the shoaling fish, which can ultimately lead to the demise of the latter. Considering the tank size is already on the small side for breeding Kribs, I'd recommend seeing if they breed without any dithers.
It's worth noting that you should never put Corys with dwarf Cichlid pairs unless you have a large tank. I've come across reports of even gentle dwarf Cichlids, like the golden-eyed dwarf, attacking Corys to defend their young. The instinct to protect their fry and larvae can be overwhelming in dwarf Cichlids, and it's our responsibility to avoid putting bottom-dwelling fish in harm's way.
In a tall tank with plenty of surface space, dithers can work well with minimal stress. However, we're talking about tanks with depths of at least 21-24 inches and front glass of 36-48 inches.
If you do decide to go this route, which I think is a bit of a gamble in a 20-gallon tank, avoid using skittish fish like Rummy Nose tetras. With dithers, you're essentially prioritizing the Cichlids over the shoaling fish, which can ultimately lead to the demise of the latter. Considering the tank size is already on the small side for breeding Kribs, I'd recommend seeing if they breed without any dithers.
It's worth noting that you should never put Corys with dwarf Cichlid pairs unless you have a large tank. I've come across reports of even gentle dwarf Cichlids, like the golden-eyed dwarf, attacking Corys to defend their young. The instinct to protect their fry and larvae can be overwhelming in dwarf Cichlids, and it's our responsibility to avoid putting bottom-dwelling fish in harm's way.
In a tall tank with plenty of surface space, dithers can work well with minimal stress. However, we're talking about tanks with depths of at least 21-24 inches and front glass of 36-48 inches.
Re: dithering for kribensis
Thanks for the advice and insight. The happy little pair is thriving.
Re: dithering for kribensis
Just a quick update, folks. The happy little couple is still thriving. Three weeks in and we've got some tiny additions - I'm beyond stoked to see that they've got babies. The male's colors have been even more vibrant since they started spawning, and the female's been busy taking care of the little ones. It's been an amazing experience watching them grow and thrive in their new home.