Bolivian Butterfly Cichlid (Microgeophagus altispinosus ) 5-6cm

The Bolivian Butterfly Cichlid is found in the Amazon River basin, South America.

Only slight variances between geographical locations occur, but most are not noted in the aquarium trade. Although M. altispinosus is less intense in colour to the similar M. ramirezi, it still a great looking cichlid. It has a gold belly and an iridescent bluish hue, accompanied by red highlights on the fins, a thin vertical black bar down through the face and a darksplotch in the middle of the body.

The Bolivian Butterfly Cichlid is an undervalued species in the aquarium hobby. They are impressively coloured, will not grow too large, will eat most foods, and they can adapt to a diverse number of water conditions with ease. Since the Bolivian Butterfly Cichlid is not as finicky as many other cichlids when it comes to these requirements it is definitely worth a look.

The Bolivian Butterfly Cichlids are a shy and relatively peaceful cichlid that are well suited to being kept in small groups of 4-6 in a community tank. Tetras or similar mid-water species are recommended as tank mates since the presence of small to medium sized fish appears to reduce their natural shyness. The addition of peaceful bottom dwellers such as Corydoras species and other catfish well help create an ideal community environment.

Bolivian butterflies benefit from a varied diet. We recommend feeding foods high in beta-carotene to enhance colouration. They are bottom feeders, so feed good quality sinking foods. Supplement their diet with high quality frozen foods such as  Brine Shrimp and Mysis. Both of these are naturally rich in beta-carotene.

Adult males grow larger than females and possess slightly more extended fins. They also are generally more intense in colour when compared to the female.

• Species – Microgeophagus altispinosus
  
• Common Name – Bolivian Butterfly Cichlid
• Origin – Amazon River basin, South America.
• Diet – Omnivore
• PH Range – 6 – 7.5
• Temperature – Tropical 23°c – 28°c
• Breed Type – Egg Layer
• Current Size – approximately 4-5cm (Grows to approximately 8cm)
• Sex – Un-sexed