Paretoplus Menarambo / Maculatus Pricing

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Red Aimara

Red Aimara

Peacock Bass
MFK Member
Apr 9, 2011
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Hi folks,

Madagascan cichlids are easily one of my favorite due to their marine fish-like colors and shapes.

Have the opportunity to purchase the above species (around 10-12 inches) and was shocked by the pricing.

Menarambo cost twice as much as Maculatus. Is this the market norm due to the rarity of Menarambo (extinct in wild)?

It's around USD 250 for a pair of Maculatus vs USD 300 for a single Menarambo.
 
To me, Menarambo are more sought after due to their marking, etc. than the Maculatus. Both are beautiful fish. I paid $70 for my Maculatus and he is 10". I have a small school of Menarambo of 7 that I paid $80. I recently bought 11-12 Dambabes for $80 each and they are very drab looking. I guess if that price is good for you go get them, they are awesome fish.
 
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Thanks for the response.

I am still considering adding a large Maculatus into my big fish tank and perhaps a shoal of Menarambos (small ones) for another if the opportunity arises.

Would a 5-7 group suffice? I am wary of them killing each other once reaching a certain size.
 
The best way I've found to raise any Paretroplus, and not have them kill each other (except maybe nourisatti), is to get a bunch, raise them together, and never add new ones, or any other Paretroplus to the mix, and never subtract form the group, after they've hit maturity. They seem to form a very stable hierarchy, social group, and as long as it is not messed with, can remain solid for years. And as they grow, if constantly moved together to larger quarters all is good. Because my menerambo easily hit 16". the tank size became the determining factor, and crammed too tight any hierarchy is at risk.
A few months ago I moved my maculatus to a 500 gallon pool, because the 6 ft tank they were in, just became to tight, and this staved off what was looking to become a blood bath if I didn't move them. Soon after moving, they spawned on the side of the pool

 
I agree with everything Duane said! Especially regarding groups and hierarchy.
My Maculatus were purchased for $20 each in a group of ten @ 1.5 to 2 inches. Didnt pay for shipping. Ive had them for 3 years. Theyre approx 5 to 7 inches depending on their place in their hierarchy.
My Menerambo were $25 each in a group of 6 @ 1.5 inches. Not including shipping. They are now 2 years old and are 4-6 inches depending on their place.
There hasn't been much growth in either species lately.
Paretriplines are by far my favorite species and are absolutely stunning.
 
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