Pinstripe Damba Cichlid (Paretroplus menarambo)

A rarely seen species of Madagascan Cichlid, the Pinstripe Damba or Menarambo Cichlid is a large growing, bold and active species found in a few rivers and lakes in Northwestern Madagascar. In the wild, they are critically endangered due to habitat destruction and competition from introduced species like Tilapia, but tank-bred specimens are available from time to time in the hobby. It was considered extinct in the wild for some time until a small wild population was recently discovered. Like some of the other members of its genus, P. menarambo is often found in shoals in the wild, and will do best in a group of 5 or more. Aggressive and often extremely territorial, they are best kept in a species tank or with other robust, large tankmates that are not at risk of being picked on. Pinstripe Damba are voracious eaters, and should be fed a varied diet including some algae or vegetable based foods.