Bolivian ram
Mikrogeophagus altispinosus · Cichlidae
Also known as Butterfly ram, Altispinosa
Beginner
Hardier, larger alternative to the German blue ram; tolerates ordinary tap water.
In short: A Bolivian ram needs at least 110 L (29 US gal), water at 23–29 °C (73–84 °F) and pH 6–7.8. It is peaceful, kept in pairs or more, and rated beginner to keep.
Updated
- Minimum tank
- 110 L (29 US gal)
- Temperature
- 23–29 °C (73–84 °F)
- pH
- 6–7.8
- Adult size
- 8 cm (3.1 in)
- Group size
- 2+
Care requirements
- Minimum tank volume
- 110 L (29 US gal)
- Temperature
- 23–29 °C (73–84 °F)
- pH
- 6–7.8
- Hardness
- 3–15 dGH
- Lifespan
- 4–6 years
- Diet
- Omnivore — pellets, frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp.
- Care level
- Beginner
Origin & habitat
- Native region
- Mamoré basin, Bolivia and Brazil
- Water type
- Freshwater
- Biotope
- Sandy, shallow river margins
- Natural conditions
- Warm, soft to medium, gently flowing water.
Behaviour & stocking
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Minimum group
- 2 fish
- Swims
- Bottom
- Good tank mates
- Rummynose tetraCorydorasBristlenose pleco
- Avoid
- Aggressive cichlidsFin nippers
Breeding & difficulty
- Breeding difficulty
- Intermediate
- Sexing
- Males are larger with extended fin filaments.
- Notes
- Reliable substrate spawner; both parents guard the fry.
- Common ailments
- IchHexamita
Will it fit your tank?
Sign in and AquaLog compares Bolivian ram against every tank you track — volume, water type, temperature and pH — then adds it to your livestock in one tap.
Sign in to check my tanks
