Un peu plus d'informations...

The Microgeophagus altispinosus, also known as the Bolivian Ram, is a small South American cichlid valued for its elegant appearance, peaceful personality, and good suitability for a community aquarium. Native to Bolivia, it inhabits quiet waters in the upper Madeira basin, where it searches the bottom for small organisms and edible organic matter. Less brightly colored than the Ramirezi, it stands out through its relative hardiness, red-edged fins, and family-oriented behavior. Its availability remains moderate in the aquarium trade. It is suitable for aquarists who can provide stable water, a non-abrasive substrate, and well-arranged resting areas. A calm layout and varied feeding help this species display its best colors and behavior.

General species description

The Microgeophagus altispinosus is a dwarf cichlid in the genus Microgeophagus, generally peaceful except during breeding. It spends much of its time in the lower and middle areas of the aquarium, inspecting the substrate, moving in short bursts, and defending a small territory when a pair forms. Its behavior is less nervous than that of several other small cichlids, making it a good choice for a carefully planned community aquarium. It appreciates roots, smooth stones, and plants that divide the visual space. A group of juveniles may be kept temporarily, but adults often form pairs and become more territorial around a spawning site. Aggressive or excessively boisterous tank mates should be avoided. Water quality, chemical stability, and a varied diet strongly influence its colors and longevity. The species is moderately available, depending on shipments and the quality of the stock offered.

Geographic origin and biotope

Country of reference: Bolivia. The Microgeophagus altispinosus comes from the upper Madeira basin, especially the Río Mamoré system and associated areas of the Bolivian lowlands. It lives in slow to moderately calm water, often at shallow depths, where the bottom consists of fine sand, mud, and plant debris. Banks may be lined with roots, submerged branches, and riparian vegetation, while sheltered areas provide cover among leaves and aquatic plants. Light is often softened by vegetation and organic matter in the water. In an aquarium, this origin translates into a preference for a natural layout, moderate flow, and soft to moderately mineralized water. Fine sand reduces the risk of injury when the fish sifts through the substrate. Regular water changes are essential because it does not tolerate an accumulation of nitrogenous waste. The goal should be to recreate a quiet habitat rather than a strongly turbulent stream.

Precise locality and local name

The known range of the Microgeophagus altispinosus lies in the Bolivian Amazon lowlands, within the upper Madeira basin. The Río Mamoré is the geographic reference most often associated with the species, along with lowland habitats made up of calm side channels, small tributaries, and seasonally flooded areas. In the trade, the English name Bolivian Ram is used most often, while “Bolivian Ram” is also the usual English-language aquarium name. The word “ram” is a trade name shared with other dwarf cichlids and should not be interpreted as proof of close relationship with every fish sold under that name. Popular names may vary among regions and local communities in its native country, so the scientific name remains the best reference for aquarists. The species is not present in every shop, but it is regularly offered by specialized suppliers.

Appearance and physical characteristics

The Microgeophagus altispinosus has an oval, relatively deep body, a short head, clearly visible eyes, and a mouth adapted to taking small particles from the bottom. Its base color ranges from beige to golden brown, with bluish reflections on the cheeks, gill covers, and parts of the body. A dark stripe crosses the eye, and a dark blotch is usually visible on the flank. The dorsal and caudal fins show red, orange, or yellow tones, especially in well-conditioned adults. The front rays of the dorsal fin may be more developed in males. Its adult size remains modest, although its sturdy body makes it appear more substantial than several other dwarf cichlids. Colors become stronger under moderate lighting, in a secure layout, and with a quality diet. During breeding, the female may show warmer ventral coloration and a rounder abdomen. Markings vary according to geographic origin and captive-bred strain.

General diet

The Microgeophagus altispinosus is an omnivore with a micro-predatory tendency that searches sand and surfaces for small invertebrates, larvae, and organic matter. In an aquarium, it generally accepts sinking fine pellets, quality flakes, and frozen foods. A diet made up of small, varied portions supports growth and coloration. Brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms used in moderation can supplement the ration, along with other suitable frozen foods. Food items should be small enough to swallow easily. Adults are best fed once or twice daily in limited amounts so uneaten food does not accumulate in the substrate. Young fish benefit from more frequent meals and finer particles. Although it sifts through the bottom, it is not a substitute for a detritus-eating fish and should not be fed only plant-based foods. Clean water and a diet that is not excessively rich in fat help maintain good overall condition.

Essential data

• River of origin: Río Mamoré, in the upper Madeira basin.
• Local name used: Bolivian Ram.
• Origin of the scientific name: The genus and species epithet are formed from Greek and Latin roots.
• Full-name etymology: Microgeophagus means “small earth-eater”; altispinosus means “high-spined,” referring to the elevated rays of the dorsal fin.
• Common/vernacular names: Bolivian Ram, Bolivian Butterfly, Bolivian Ram Cichlid.
• Family: Cichlidae.
• Subfamily: Cichlinae.
• Name pronunciation: my-kroh-jee-oh-fay-gus - al-tee-spy-noh-sus.
• Discovery: John D. Haseman, 1911.
• Maximum adult size: About 8 cm.
• Water temperature and pH: 24–28 °C; pH 6.0–7.5.
• Appearance of the watercourse and surrounding vegetation: Slow water, shallow areas, sand, mud, leaves, roots, and dense riparian vegetation.
• Typical tank mates: Hemigrammus rhodostomus, Hoplisoma paleatus, Nannostomus beckfordi, Otocinclus macrospilus.
• Temperament and behavior: Peaceful, bottom-sifting, and territorial mainly when a pair forms or spawns.
• Water depth: Generally shallow to moderate in calm areas and secondary channels.
• Sexual dimorphism: Males are often larger, with a more developed dorsal fin; females are stockier and may show stronger belly coloration during breeding.
• Bottom structure and flow: Fine sand, mud, and plant debris; low to moderate flow.

In your aquarium

Success with the Microgeophagus altispinosus depends on a mature aquarium, stable water, and a layout that provides both open areas and shelter. Fine sand, roots, plants, and smooth stones allow natural behavior. Maintain a moderate current, effective filtration, and consistent water changes. A pair may defend an area while spawning, without necessarily becoming an aggressive cichlid. Choose calm tank mates, avoid overcrowding, and offer varied food in small portions. With these precautions, this Bolivian cichlid becomes an active, fascinating, and long-lived resident of a well-balanced community aquarium.