Bolivian Ram Cichlids, also known as Mikrogeophagus Altispinosus, are a species of freshwater fish that are native to the Bolivian and Paraguayan tributaries of the Amazon River. They are a peaceful species that make great additions to a community tank.
Tank Setup & Water Conditions:
- These fish should be kept in a tank of at least 110 Litres (30 gallons) in size.
- A pH between 6.0 and 7.5 and a water temperature between 24-27c (75-80f)
- Bolivian Ram Cichlids require a sandy substrate and plenty of hiding places, such as caves or PVC pipes.
- They are also known to appreciate planted tanks, but the plants should be robust enough to withstand the fish's digging and burrowing.
Diet:
- Bolivian Ram Cichlids are omnivorous and will eat a variety of foods, including flakes, pellets, frozen, and live foods.
- They should be fed a variety of foods to ensure they get all the necessary nutrients.
- Feeding them live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia will give them the protein they need to stay healthy.
Compatibility:
- Bolivian Ram Cichlids are peaceful fish that do well in community tanks with other peaceful species such as tetras, rasboras, and livebearers.
- They can also be kept with other cichlids, but it's important to ensure that the tank is large enough and that the other cichlids are not overly aggressive.
Breeding:
- Bolivian Ram Cichlids are relatively easy to breed in captivity.
- They are a monogamous species, meaning that a pair will form a breeding bond and will defend their territory from other fish.
- To encourage breeding, provide a suitably-sized tank with caves or PVC pipes and a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, as well as a varied diet that includes live or frozen foods.
Overall, Bolivian Ram Cichlids make great additions to a community tank and are relatively easy to care for as long as their basic needs are met. With proper care, they will live for several years.