Microgeophagus altispinosa AKA Bolivian Ram

[Aussie_hippie_2]

A neat little apisto that's perfect for the community tank. These guys are tougher then their Blue cousins, however are still very sensitive to water conditions. I highly recommend using a well settled tank.


Common name(s): Bolivian ram, butterfly fish, Ram

Scientific name: Microgeophagus altispinosa

Origin: South America

Family: Cichlidae

Size: Up to 4 inches, though none of my rams are this big

Tank requirements: Some people say the min tank size for the Bolivian ram is 10g, but I honestly wouldn't put them in anything under a 20 long. Also have good filtration.

Temperature: The standard range, however I like to keep all my bolivians in around 80 degree temperature because I think their colours come out stronger. Or maybe I'm just seeing things.

Colouration: The Bolivian Ram is a very colourful fish, both visually and in character. They have a black marking over their eyes, a dark black dot on the center of their body, and a duller one at the start of their dorsal fin. (Though I have seen ones without black entirely) As they mature a red line will apear more vibrant on the outline of their dorsal and tail fin.

Sexing: First things first, an immature giggle. OK done. But seriously, the best way in my opinion to sex your Bolivians is to look at the tail fin. The top of the males caudal (tail) fin should have a much longer extension then the females. The first and second ray of the dorsal fin; if the second ray petrudes much further then the third and forth, then chances are it's a male. This however is not the best way; use the tail first, and dorsal fin for confirmation. These aren't the easiest fish to sex, so you'll probably be best just getting a few and waiting for them to pair.

Breeding: I haven't had the most luck with breeding these fellas, but I will give an overview of what breeders have told me. They are an open substrate spawner who prefer to breed on a flat rock. Since they're cichlids, they will get a tad more aggresive when spawning. They will clear the 'landing site' of all debris. The female will lay a few eggs at a time, let the male fertilize, and repeat until there are 150-200 eggs. After they hatch, the wigglers will be moved to a depression in the sand (sand is the best substrate for bolivians IMO) The parents will care for the fry, though they don't allways make good parents, and your best bet will be to remove them, particularly if they're in a community tank. WARNING If you are serious about spawning these fish be prepared for a lot of babies and a fairly slow growth rate. One of my males was born in May, and is still not nearly fully grown.

Nutrition: Omnivore. Will eat flake food with vigor, however will glady accept many frozen foods. Mine go crazy for bloodworms.

Additional comments: This is my favorite fish by far, due to their individuality. Every Bolivian I've owned has been had a different attitude. They can be relentlessly agressive with those of their own sex however, due in part to this; some are natural born fighters, others are lovers. These are great fish for a first time cichlid keeper, and will give you an insight to the wonderful world of the Cichlidae.


Feel free to mention anything I've missed.
Cheers.


I'll post some pics and videos in the future hopefully.