Bolivian Ram Breeding Guide (Mikrogeophagus altispinosus)

Breeding the Bolivian Ram (Mikrogeophagus altispinosus): a biparental, open substrate-spawning dwarf cichlid that lays 100-200 eggs on a flat surface and guards its fry.

Overview

The Bolivian Ram (Mikrogeophagus altispinosus) is a biparental, open-spawning dwarf cichlid that deposits its eggs on a flat surface and cares for the brood. It occurs in soft, near-neutral, warm waters (pH 6.3-7.6).

Sexing

Sexual dimorphism is slight: mature males are a little larger and in some cases show longer extensions on the caudal fin and the rear of the dorsal fin.

Conditioning

No particular spawning trigger is needed; the main requirements are a good diet and a stringent maintenance regime. Where sexed adults are not available, it is best to grow on a group of young fish and let a pair form naturally.

Breeding Setup

A dedicated set-up with no other fishes present is recommended. Provide flat spawning sites such as a flat stone, driftwood, a broad leaf or the aquarium glass. Suitable conditions are 24-28 C (with around 27 C cited for spawning) and pH 6.0-7.5.

Spawning Behavior & Trigger

Courtship lasts around 48 hours and includes head shaking, quivering and preparation of shallow pits. The female lays roughly 100-200 ovoid brownish eggs in rows on the chosen surface, and the male follows to fertilise each line; the process is repeated until she is spent.

Egg & Fry Care

Both parents care for the brood. The female fans the eggs and may add sand to the clutch, and at about 27 C the eggs hatch in roughly 60 hours. Newly hatched fry are moved to pre-excavated pits and shifted between them regularly. They become free-swimming after about seven days and are led about in a dense school by the parents; offer microworm and Artemia nauplii once they are free-swimming.

Common Challenges

First-time pairs may eat early clutches; a quiet, species-only set-up and stable conditions improve success.