Bolivian Butterfly Ram 4cm

Bolivian Butterfly Ram (Mikrogeophagus altispinosus)

A peaceful, hardy South American dwarf cichlid prized for its soft golden body, elongated trailing fins, and distinctive black mid-lateral spot. More forgiving than its cousin the German Blue Ram, the Bolivian Butterfly is a characterful, inquisitive fish that pairs well and adds personality to the lower-mid levels of a well-planted community aquarium.

Care at a Glance:

• Minimum Tank Size: 75L+ with soft substrate, driftwood, and planted cover
• Temperature: 24–28°C
• pH Range: 6.0–7.5
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful, but can be territorial when breeding
• Diet: Omnivore — flakes, micro-pellets, frozen/live foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp)
• Max Size: 8–10cm
• Lifespan: 4–6 years
• Care Level: Moderate (needs stable, clean water — but hardier than German Blue Rams)

Tank Mates: Peaceful community fish — tetras, rasboras, corydoras, and peaceful rainbowfish. Best kept as a bonded pair or one male with multiple females; avoid aggressive or boisterous tank mates.

Origin: South America — Bolivia and Brazil, Rio Mamoré and Guaporé basins (captive-bred specimens widely available)