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Old March 2nd, 2014, 11:12 AM   #1
robertprice
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Default Cichlid Profiles - Mikrogeophagus altispinosus (Bolivian Ram)

The Bolivian Ram is now included with the German Blue Ram as the only other member of the genus Mikrogephagus, although it had previously been assigned to Apistogramma, Papillochromis, Crenicara, and to Microgeophagus (incorrect spelling). They are quite similar shape-wise and size-wise, but are hardier and have different colors and geographic ranges. The Bolivian Ram was discovered in the early 1900's, some 30 years before its congener, but until recently has not been as popular or as often captive bred. They come from the Amazon River drainage Guapore River in Brazil and the Mamore River drainage in Boliva (type locality - San Joaquin). They are paler colored than German Blues, having a silver-grey posterior and much yellower anterior. Their spots and stripes are the same as M. ramirezi, except for a strain from the Upper Guapore called the Zweifleck/Two Patch, which has a second large black spot behind the first or on the caudal peduncle and may prove to be a third species. Bolivian Rams usually have very red or lavender pelvic and **** fins. The dorsal and caudal fins have red edges, and the first few dorsal spines are black. They are benthic sand sifters. They are not as sexually dimorphic as their relatives, and longer dorsal and tail fin extensions are the most reliable differences between males and females.

Bolivian Rams are good beginner cichlids. These fish need a 20 gallon tank, with both dense plants and open swimming space. They do best at pH 6.5-7, temperature of 75-81 degrees, and can tolerate soft to slightly hard water. They are much more adaptable to changing water conditions than German Blue Rams, often stay healthier, and do not require tannins in the water.They eat a wide range of fish foods. Spawning occurs near and on flat rocks and there are 50 to 200 adhesive eggs.

Pictures available at "Images of Bolivian Rams, and "Images of Zweifleck/Two Spot Rams," which also shows many other species and "Images of Two Spot Bolivian Rams".
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Last edited by robertprice; March 2nd, 2014 at 07:48 PM. Reason: sp.
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