Bolivian ram

Mikrogeophagus altispinosus

A black eye bar, flank blotch and red fin edges; leave soft sand for feeding.

A more elongated, quieter-coloured relative of the familiar blue ram, often feeding near sand.

Adult length: Up to 8 cm (standard length, without the tail fin)
Water temperature: 24–28 °C
Lifespan: 4–5 years
pH: 6–7.5
Hardness: 1–10 dGH

Natural habitat: Native to the Guaporé drainage in Brazil and Bolivia and the Mamoré drainage in Bolivia.

Use a mature, stable aquarium and watch for feeding competition. Coarse gravel does not replace sand for sifting.

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Appearance and identification

Males show a black eye bar separate from the flank blotch, taller front dorsal rays, extended pelvic fins and modest tail tips with red edging. Larger than ramirezi and without its dense blue iridescent markings.

Social behaviour and territory

A bonded pair differs from a randomly chosen male and female. Watch individuals and keep a separation option.

Compatibility limits

Avoid persistent feeding competitors and bottom-territory rivals. Generally restrained, but it defends its territory when breeding.

Space requirements

A 90 × 45 cm base suits one fish in a community or a pair; 6–8 fish need a 120 cm tank.

Aquarium environment

Keep soft sand for feeding, with roots and plants as cover. Attached plants can sit on décor; do not cover all feeding space with coarse stones or carpeting plants.

Diet and feeding

Offer small sinking complete foods with varied live or frozen fare, and make sure food reaches the fish. Sand sifting is not a substitute for feeding.

Sources