Microgeophagus Ramirezi

[Kevin Goodman <goodke@netcom.com>]

Hi All,

I have some questions about general information for breeding Microgeophagus
Ramirezi. I just got two Rams (the golden morph). I'm hoping they are male
and female, but this could be wrong. The basic difference between the two
is the dorsal fin on what I think is the mail is longer at the back, and 
the caudal fin is longer (and also slightly tattered). Right now I have the
Ph down at about 6.5 and I'm trying to slowly lower it to the 6.0 to 5.5 range.
I've got the two of them in a 20 gallon tank, all alone except for one zebra
danio. In the tank there are some plastic plants, one large 'hiding place' rock,
and a few small flat rocks intended as potential spawning sights. 

My basic question is: Does this setup sound like a place the fish would try and
breed? Should the zebra danio be moved to another tank? How do I lower the 
Hardness of the water? (right now its about 120-140 ppm (about 6-8 dH)). Are
my Ph goals sufficient? I'm using a chemical to lower my Ph, would I have 
better luck with peat Moss?

I Know these guys are only close to apistos but I figure someone out here
should know. Thanks in advance for the advice.

Thanks,

Kevin Goodman
goodke@netcom.com