Cichlids: Bolivian Rams

Question
I have so many differing opinions regarding the diet for the little Bolivian Ram. One says feed them on a meaty diet,i.e. other fish,insects or beef liver. Another suggests they are best fed on a vegetable based diet, i.e. boiled spinach, peas, lettuce or broccoli. A third source suggests they are omnivores and should be fed on a diet that reflects this,i.e. a mixture of meaty and vegetable foods.I have a pair of Bolivian rams, who live in a 24x15x12" aquarium. I have up to now fed them on a flake diet, with a few daphnia or bloodworms once a week. Occasionally the odd insect falls into the water making an additional supplement. What is your opinion of the "ideal" diet for Bolivian rams?

Answer
Hi Donald,
Bolivian Rams should have a varied diet.  The more you vary, the healthier they will be.  They must feed a good quality flake, and small pellets.  The pellets should be previously soaked so that they can digest it better.  Daphnia, and bloodworrms are also good for them.  Dry brine shrimp, glassworms, amd cleaned out earthworms chopped in little pieces.  Always buy your earthworms at the bait store.  This way you are sure they have no pesticides in them.  To clean the earthworms, put them in oats for about a week.  They also eat mealworms, and white worms, that you find at your pet store.  You should also add "Spirulina" to their diet.  Little rams should be fed small amounts of food 3 to 4 times a day.  Always make sure their water is clean, and free of ammonia, and you should have no problems.
Hope this helps
Lynda