Paretroplus kieneri tankmates

  • We are currently upgrading MFK. thanks! -neo
I kept mine in a 150 gal with other Madagascans and some Central American cichlids. They ignored the others, and the others seemed to ignore them. They even spawned in the community.
Like other Paretroplines they like to shoal in a group.



I believe the eggs above were infertile because of the white color, but were eaten soon after, so I never found out for sure.


 
Pe Kieneri, aka Calico Damba, aka Kotsovato cichlid are the smallest and likely the least aggressive of the Madagascar paretroplines. As Duane has said and illustrated with his excellent photos, they're best in groups. You can also try looking up info on Madagascar cichlids on forums. They're a C.A.R.E.S. priority species and part of the IUCN red list. Pe Keineri are classified as VU, vulnerable and Paretroplus cf. kieneri 'Sofia drainage' are critically endangered. There a a number of Madagascar keepers in the UK with extensive knowledge on this species.

What tankmates are you considering? If you do obtain them, please post info and pics! Hope this helps.

http://www.carespreservation.com/priority_list.html

http://www.iucnredlist.org/details/16235/0

http://www.cichlid-forum.com/articles/pare_kieneri.php

http://www.fishchannel.com/fish-mag...quarium/february-2009/cichlid-madagascar.aspx

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So you already have one? How big is it? I don't keep CA cichlids, and I'm unsure as to what's available to you in the UK. I'd suggest small peaceful fish for an 80g. Are there more kieneri available? There are Malagasy keepers in the UK, it may take some research to find them. Try the boards and clubs in your area.

With the exception of my 110g SA tank, the rest of my cichlids are of Cameroon; Saratheradon Knauerae, Stomatepia Pindu and Malagasies; Paratilapia polleni, Pty. Tarantsy, Pe Menarambo, Pe Maculatus and Pe Kieneri. They're not common in the hobby and it takes a while to obtain them. I'm actively searching for more kieneri myself.

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That's interesting. Do you know who bred them? Can you post pics?

Young damba, are about $20 to $30 US at 1.5 to 2 inches. There are very few keepers who have been able to successfully breed Damba in the US and Europe. Since they are so infrequently offered, I'd buy as many as possible while they're available. Paretroplus are really tough to sex, unless you witness a spawn. If you have a group, pairs may form on their own. 6 is a nice group for a species tank. Maybe you'll catch Malagasy fever too. They're all so rare and gorgeous. They're worth the price. I hope you change your mind :)

Here's more info
http://aquaticnation.org/library/Lib_Cich_sp_Paretroplus_kieneri.php



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When any Paretroplus is not kept in a group, my experience has been they become either hyper dominant, or extremely paranoid.
As a group I kept mine with smaller Central Americans, although the centrals quickly out grew the kieneri.
I would suggest something with a totally different body shape than the kieneri, and as LS2012 suggested, something with a much milder temperament than many centrals.
Anything like a Parachromis, or Herichthys would probably kill kieneri
I have found some of the genus Astatheros to be less aggressive, or Archcentrus nanoluteus because it stays small (like kieneri), and has a totally contrasting color, despite its similar body style.
Another Madagascan that may be available where you are, is the genus Ptychochromis, this is arguably the Madagascan equivalent to Geophagines, or Thorichthys.
A nanoluteus

Astatheros rostratus

Ptychchromis sp tarantsy (these came from LS2012)

Pty sp east coast gold, pic from some years back.
 
Sorry just saw them at my lfs but didn't really ask the staff as it was quite busy. Might be better off getting a few more than planned but I haven't actually got them yet but there were about 20 of them there going for £25 each £40 for a pair


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Ultimately, its your call. Personally, I'd get at least 6 and keep them in a species only tank. They're a rare gem. The price isn't too bad, considering you're not paying for shipping. I didn't include shipping costs in my prior post. Ive NEVER seen them in a fish store. I'd be curious about the breeder. That may be factor in their price. There's a few excellent and well known Malagasy keepers in the UK. How big are they?

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