Photo: Ventus55, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Bolivian ram
Mikrogeophagus altispinosus
8 cm
Adult size
250 L
Minimum volume
2
Minimum group
8 years
Lifespan
Water parameters
Understand these values- Genus
- Mikrogeophagus
- Diet
- omnivore
- Social life
- pair
In the wild
Overview
This dwarf cichlid, sold as the “Bolivian ram”, is probably a better choice for a less experienced hobbyist than its cousin M. ramirezi. Its name comes from the elongated first spiny rays of its dorsal fin.
- Scientific name
- Mikrogeophagus altispinosus (Haseman, 1911)
- Classification
- Cichliformes › Cichlidae
- IUCN Red List
- Least concern (LC)
Natural habitat
Upper Rio Madeira basin (Mamoré, Guaporé, Orthon), in Bolivia and Brazil
Observations (GBIF) and localities Native countries Rivers and lakes
Little is known of its habitat, probably tributaries, margins, oxbows and lakes over sand or mud. The upper Madeira is home to more than 400 fish species, including many tetras known in the hobby.
Behaviour
Despite its reputation, it does not suit a classic community tank: it needs impeccable water and feeds poorly against competitors. A group of peaceful tetras swimming in open water reassures it. It sifts the substrate for food: fine sand, sinking food and small live or frozen prey.
Sources:FishBase Seriously Fish GBIF · Base map: Natural Earth