More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 180 litres / 47.55 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 8.0cm / 3.15inches |
| Temperature | 24°C / 75.20°F - 28°C / 82.40°F |
| Hardness | 1.01dgH / 18ppm - 10.03dgH / 179ppm |
| pH | 6.0-7.5 |
General Description
Mikrogeophagus altispinosus, commonly known as the Bolivian Ram, is a species of cichlid belonging to the order Perciformes. It is distinguishable from its congener Mikrogeophagus ramirezi by its larger size and less colorful appearance, lacking the characteristic blue iridescent markings found on the fins, body, and head of M. ramirezi.
Aquarium Setup
When setting up an aquarium for M. altispinosus, it is crucial to provide a soft, sandy substrate to mimic its natural browsing behavior. Decorate the tank with wood roots, branches, and flat rocks to create shaded areas and potential spawning sites. Aquatic plants like Microsorum, Taxiphyllum, Cryptocoryne, and Anubias can be added for additional cover. Moderate filtration and regular water changes of 10-15% are recommended, while extremely large water changes should be avoided. It is essential to maintain stable water conditions within a pH range of 6.0-7.5, a temperature of 24-28°C, and a hardness of 18-179ppm.
Behaviour
M. altispinosus is not suited for a general community aquarium due to its need for pristine water quality and poor competitive abilities. However, it can be kept with peaceful, open water-dwelling characids or similar fish to reduce shyness. Peaceful bottom-dwellers like Corydoras catfish can also be compatible tank mates for M. altispinosus.
Feeding and Diet
Being benthophagous by nature, Mikrogeophagus species sift mouthfuls of substrate for edible items and also browse solid surfaces or snatch items from the water column. In the aquarium, they should be offered a variety of live and frozen foods such as bloodworms, Artemia, and Daphnia, supplemented with sinking dried foods. Home-made gelatine-bound recipes containing a mix of dried fish food, puréed shellfish, and fresh fruit and vegetables are also suitable for their diet.
Reproduction & Dimorphism
The Bolivian Ram is a biparental substrate spawner, best bred in a dedicated setup without other fish. There is no specific trigger for spawning, but a good diet and stringent maintenance regime are essential. Sexable adults or a group of young fish can be used to allow pairs to form naturally. Adult males are larger, possess slightly more extended fins, and exhibit more intense coloring than females.
Habitat and Distribution
Endemic to the upper Rio Madeira basin in Bolivia and Brazil, M. altispinosus inhabits tributaries, marginal zones, oxbows, and lakes with sand or mud substrates. The upper Madeira system hosts a diverse range of freshwater fish species, offering a suitable natural habitat for this cichlid species.