A rare species of Madagascan Cichlid, the Spotted Damba or Damba Mipentina is a large growing, bold and active species found in slow-moving 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. Like some of the other members of its genus, P. maculatus 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. Spotted Damba are voracious eaters, and should be fed a varied diet including some algae or vegetable based foods.