[6] Both sexes have a dark longitudinal stripe that runs from the caudal fin to the mouth and pink to red abdomens, the intensity of which changes during courtship and breeding.

[8] Pelvicachromis pulcher is native to southern Nigeria and to coastal areas of Cameroon, where it occurs in warm (24–26 °C or 75–79 °F), acidic to neutral (pH 5.6–6.2), soft water (12–22 mg L−1 CaCO3).

[3][6] Populations of P. pulcher also occur outside its natural range in Hawaii, USA as a by-product of the ornamental fish trade.

[3] The species is prey for a number of rheophilic predators including Hepsetus odoe, Hydrocynus forskahlii, and Lates niloticus (Nile perch).

[6] In the natural habitat, P. pulcher have been observed excavating, defending, and sheltering in caves dug underneath plants, and these holes are also used for breeding.

[3][4] Despite the suggestion in the aquarium literature that the species forms monogamous pairs,[5] the formation of polygynous harems is not uncommon in the natural habitat.

[8] The species are secretive cave spawners (speleophils) although detailed information on their reproductive biology in the wild is limited.

In captivity, artificial caves are readily accepted as breeding sites, however, these too are excavated prior to egg-laying.

[3][8] Both the male and female provide active brood care, typically lasting 21–28 days,[3] which includes guarding, herding, and feeding.

It is noteworthy, however, that the female is predominantly responsible for fry care, while the male is primarily involved in territorial defence.