Pinstripe damba - Paretroplus menarambo

Scientific name: Paretroplus menarambo

Common name: Pinstripe damba

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 11 - 13 cm (4.33 - 5.12 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6.5 - 7.5

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 6 - 17°N (107.14 - 303.57ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 23 - 28 °C (73.4 - 82.4°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: Madagascar

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Origin

The Pinstripe Damba (Paretroplus menarambo) is native to Madagascar, specifically from Lake Sarodrano and the Sofia River basin. Due to habitat destruction and overfishing, this species is now classified as Critically Endangered in the wild. Conservation efforts are crucial to preserving this unique cichlid, making it an important species for aquarists to breed and maintain in captivity.

Lifespan

With proper care, Paretroplus menarambo can live for 8-12 years in an aquarium setting. Maintaining high water quality and a suitable environment is key to maximizing their lifespan.

Short Description

The Pinstripe Damba is a peaceful and somewhat shy cichlid known for its distinct pinstripe pattern. Growing to a size of 11-13 cm (4.33-5.12 inches), they require a spacious tank with a sandy substrate, as they are natural sand sifters. Rocks and driftwood should be added to create hiding places, helping them feel secure. Since these fish need ample swimming space and prefer to be kept in groups, a large aquarium is essential for their well-being. Inadequate space or improper tankmates can lead to aggression. Due to their slow growth rate, reaching maturity at around 2-3 years, purchasing these fish with the intent to breed is recommended, especially given their critical status in the wild.

Pinstripe Dambas are extremely sensitive to water conditions, so regular maintenance and a powerful filtration system are required to manage the large amounts of waste they produce. Frequent water changes are essential to keep nitrate levels low and ensure a healthy environment.

General Care

These fish are best kept in small groups to replicate their natural social behavior. A tank of at least 200 liters (50 gallons) is recommended, though larger is better to allow them to establish territories. When kept singly or in pairs, they may exhibit aggression, but in groups, they tend to be more peaceful. Suitable tankmates include bottom-dwelling catfish and other Madagascan cichlids that share similar water parameters.

Maintain the water temperature between 23-28°C (73.4-82.4°F) with a pH range of 6.5-7.5. Water hardness should be kept between 6-17°N (107.14-303.57 ppm). Given their sensitivity to poor water conditions, use a high-capacity filtration system to keep the water clean and stable. Weekly water changes of 20-30% are advised to ensure optimal water quality.

Food and Feeding

Pinstripe Dambas are not fussy eaters and will accept a variety of foods. A high-quality flake or pellet can serve as the staple diet, but it's important to supplement this with live or frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp to provide balanced nutrition. Offering a diverse diet will help maintain their health and vibrant coloration.

Sexing

Pinstripe Dambas are challenging to sex as there are no visible differences between males and females. This difficulty makes breeding more complex, often requiring the purchase of a group of juveniles to allow natural pairing as they mature.

Breeding

Paretroplus menarambo are substrate spawners that require flat rocks or wood surfaces in the tank for spawning. They do not reach sexual maturity until 2-3 years of age, so patience is necessary for breeding. It's best to acquire a small group of juveniles and let them form natural pairs over time. To encourage spawning, performing a cold water change may help, and keeping the tank lighting subdued can reduce distractions for the breeding pair.

The parents clean the chosen spawning site, either a flat surface or a pit in the substrate, before depositing the eggs. Both parents will guard the eggs, which typically hatch within 4-5 days. Once the fry become free-swimming, they can be fed newly hatched brine shrimp to promote healthy growth. Observing parental care in this species can be a rewarding experience for the aquarist.

Conclusion

The Pinstripe Damba is a unique and peaceful cichlid that requires careful attention to water quality, diet, and tank environment. Due to its critical status in the wild, aquarists should consider breeding these fish to contribute to their conservation. By providing a spacious tank, suitable tankmates, and proper care, this species can thrive and be a fascinating addition to a well-maintained aquarium.

Pictures

Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.