Scientific name: Paretroplus damii Common name: Madagascar cichlid Family: Cichlidae Usual size in fish tanks: 15 - 18 cm (5.91 - 7.09 inch) 0 14 Recommended pH range for the species: 6.2 - 7 Recommended water hardness (dGH): 2 - 13°N (35.71 - 232.14ppm) 0°C 32°F 30°C 86°F Recommended temperature: 22 - 25 °C (71.6 - 77°F) The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning Where the species comes from: Africa Temperament to its own species: peaceful Temperament toward other fish species: aggressive to smaller Usual place in the tank: Bottom levels Food and feeding Madagascar cichlids are very slow eaters so be patient to give them time to consume all of the food. For the staple diet, provide them with sinking pellets as they will sift the substrate to search for the food. Once a week treat them with blood worms as well. Origin Africa; Madagascar cichlids are found in Lake Pambilao, Madagascar. Sexing There are no visible differences between the sexes even as mature specimens. Breeding The parents will dig a pit in the substrate and then display to each other over the same site. The eggs will be laid at the side of the pit and they should hatch in 3-4 days. Both parents will tend the brood and may move the fry to different pits around the tank. A few days later, the fry should be free swimming and can be fed on newly hatched brine shrimp. Lifespan The expected lifespan for Paretroplus damii is 8-10 years. Short description The Madagascar Cichlid is prone to white spot so keep the fish stress free and the water quality high. Plants and driftwood can be added to the tank but the fish will re-arrange the wood to suit themselves. Pictures Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.
