Pinstripe Damba
Paretroplus menarambo
A rare Malagasy cichlid with delicate pinstripe patterning and real personality.
About
The pinstripe damba (Paretroplus menarambo) is one of the lesser-known cichlids from Madagascar, native to the Sofia River basin in the northern part of the island. Madagascar's freshwater fish fauna evolved in remarkable isolation, and the dambas are a prime example. A cichlid lineage found nowhere else on Earth. This species carries a pattern of fine horizontal lines along its flanks, giving it a more understated but genuinely distinctive look compared to the flashier cichlids that tend to dominate the hobby. It grows slowly, so patience is part of the deal, but a mature specimen in good condition is a rewarding fish to keep. Temperament runs semi-aggressive, which is pretty typical for a cichlid of this size and build. Tankmates need to be chosen with care, and a spacious setup helps keep things civil. Paretroplus menarambo is not a fish you'll find at every store, which makes it a point of interest for hobbyists who enjoy keeping something with genuine conservation and biogeographic significance. Intermediate-level experience is a reasonable expectation here. Not a beginner fish, but nothing that should intimidate a keeper who has spent time with larger cichlids before.
Similar species
Other fish you might consider
Good tank mates
Species that tend to coexist peacefully with Pinstripe Damba
From the same region
Share the same natural habitat. Great for a biotope-themed tank
Frequently asked questions
- How big does the Pinstripe Damba get?
- The Pinstripe Damba reaches about 4–10" as an adult.
- What size tank does the Pinstripe Damba need?
- A minimum of 100 gallons is recommended for the Pinstripe Damba.
- What water parameters does the Pinstripe Damba need?
- The Pinstripe Damba does best with a temperature of 72–82°F, a pH of 6.8–8.2, hardness around 5–20 dGH.
- Is the Pinstripe Damba aggressive?
- The Pinstripe Damba is semi-aggressive. It can work in a community with careful tankmate choices and enough space.
- What does the Pinstripe Damba eat?
- The Pinstripe Damba is an omnivore. It does well on a varied diet of quality flake or pellet plus occasional frozen or live foods.
- How long does the Pinstripe Damba live?
- With good care, the Pinstripe Damba typically lives 8-12 years.