Our Guide To Keeping Pinstripe Damba (Paretroplus menarambo)

1. About Fish Species:

   • Scientific name: Paretroplus menarambo
   • Common name: Pinstripe Damba
   • Family: Cichlidae
   • Origin: Northwestern Madagascar (Betsiboka River basin)
   • Adult length: 20–25 cm
   • Lifespan: 8 to 12 years
   • Diet: Omnivore (vegetable matter, detritus, small invertebrates)
   • Care Level: Intermediate
   • Temperament: Semi-aggressive (especially when breeding)

2. Tank Setup:

   • Provide a large aquarium of at least 400L (ideally bigger for groups), with open space for swimming and robust décor such as rocks and driftwood for territory and shelter.
   • Plants can be included, but choose tough varieties or those attached to rocks/driftwood, as Pinstripe Damba may dig and rearrange the substrate.

3. Water Parameters:

   • Maintain neutral to slightly alkaline water: pH 7.0–8.0.
   • Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F).

4. Filtration and Water Flow:

   • Strong, efficient filtration is required due to their size and digging behaviour. Aim for moderate flow and good oxygenation.

5. Diet:

   • Offer a mix of quality cichlid pellets, spirulina, blanched vegetables (like courgette or spinach), and occasional frozen/live foods such as bloodworm or brine shrimp.
   • Avoid a diet too heavy in animal protein—these fish need plenty of plant material.

6. Tank mates:

   • Best kept in groups of 5+ to prevent bullying. Avoid singles or pairs, as aggression may increase.
   • Choose robust, similarly sized species as tank mates—other large Malagasy cichlids or peaceful but sturdy fish. Avoid small, delicate species.

7. Behavior and Compatibility:

   • Pinstripe Damba are active, social, and intelligent, but can become territorial—especially when breeding. Group keeping helps distribute aggression.
   • Arrange the aquarium with plenty of visual barriers to allow subordinate fish to escape notice.