Bolivian ram

Mikrogeophagus altispinosus

Wild range: Bolivia (South America)

At a glance: Bolivian ram care

Compiled reference information. Review the care notes and original sources below.

What temperature is listed for Bolivian ram?

The compiled profile lists 22.0–27.8 °C for Bolivian ram (Mikrogeophagus altispinosus). Check the original sources below for context and differing recommendations.

What tank size is listed for Bolivian ram?

The profile lists a minimum tank volume of 20.0 US gallons (75.0 liters). Volume alone does not establish suitability; consider dimensions, group size and other inhabitants alongside the full care notes.

What pH is listed for Bolivian ram?

The compiled profile lists a pH of 6.0–7.5. Review the cited care sources alongside the other water parameters in this profile.

Natural habitat

Bolivian rams inhabit slow-moving waters in Bolivia, typically found in environments with sandy or muddy substrates. They are often collected from murky pools with some coverage from shoreline vegetation, indicating they favor slightly sheltered habitats within their range.

Where they are found

Bolivian Rams inhabit the slow-moving waters of Bolivia and Brazil, where they are commonly found in freshwater environments.

Aquarium care

To maintain healthy Bolivian Rams, provide a well-structured aquarium with fine sand substrate, moderate plantings, and open swimming areas. It's essential to perform regular water changes to keep the water quality high and stable, matching their natural conditions.

Feeding

The diet for Bolivian rams includes high-quality sinking pellets, frozen foods, and live foods like baby brine shrimp. They exhibit bottom feeding behavior and can often appear to not be eating as they pick through the substrate for small morsels.

Compatibility

Bolivian Rams are generally peaceful and can be kept with other gentle community fish. Suitable tank mates include tetras, rasboras, Corydoras, and other non-aggressive cichlids. Avoid larger or more aggressive species that might intimidate them.

Breeding

Breeding Bolivian Rams is feasible in captivity. Providing suitable spawning sites and monitoring the parents, who will actively guard their eggs and fry, leads to a successful breeding experience.

Sources

Compiled from multiple independent care sheets — not copied from a single site.