German Blue Ram (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi)
German Blue Ram (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi) - Medium is backordered and will ship as soon as it is back in stock.
Delivery and Shipping
Delivery and Shipping
Product Refunds & Returns
- Returns can be processed within 14 days from purchase.
- To return products, they must be in original condition
- Shipping expenses are not refundable
- If your items have been damaged in shipping, please contact us within 24 hours of receipt with photos, and we will assist you.
Dead on Arrival (DOA) Policy – Shipped Orders Only
- We guarantee live arrival on all shipped livestock when:
- The package is received on the first delivery attempt.
- Clear photos of the unopened shipping bag and deceased animal are emailed to us within 2 hours of delivery confirmation.
- If these conditions are met, we will provide a replacement or store credit. Shipping charges are non-refundable.
7-Day Livestock Guarantee (Local & Shipped Orders)
- We guarantee our livestock for 7 days from purchase/delivery if our care recommendations and tank requirements were followed.
- Proof Required: We may require photos of the deceased animal, proof of purchase (receipt/order number), and/or a water sample from your tank for testing.
Livestock Refunds, Returns, & Surrenders
- Local customers may return livestock within 72 hours of purchase for a refund, provided the animal is alive and in original condition. Returns must be brought to the store; we do not provide pickup services.
German Blue Ram (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi)
Description
Description
German Blue Ram (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi) is a brilliantly colored, peaceful dwarf cichlid native to the Orinoco River Basin in Colombia and Venezuela.
Species Overview
- Scientific Name: Mikrogeophagus ramirezi
- Common Names: German Blue Ram, Blue Ram, Butterfly Cichlid, Ramirezi
- Size: 2–3 inches (5–8 cm)
- Lifespan: 3–4 years
- Temperament: Peaceful, mildly territorial during breeding
- Difficulty: Intermediate to advanced care
Appearance
- Coloration: Electric blue highlights over a gold/silver base, with red/orange accents on fins
- Markings: Distinct black vertical stripe across the eye ("bandit mask") and dark patches near the dorsal fin
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Sexual Dimorphism:
- Males: Longer dorsal fin rays, more vivid coloration
- Females: Smaller, rounder, with pinkish belly
Tank Setup
- Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons for a pair
- Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel
- Decor: Dense planting, driftwood, caves, flat stones for spawning
- Lighting: Moderate to subdued; floating plants help diffuse light
- Filtration: Gentle flow; peat filtration and Indian almond leaves recommended
Water Parameters
- Temperature: 74–82°F (23–28°C)
- pH: 5.0–7.5 (slightly acidic preferred)
- Hardness: 5–12 dGH
- Maintenance: Weekly 20% water changes; stable, mature tank required
Diet
- Type: Omnivorous
- Staple Foods: High-quality flakes or pellets
- Treats: Brine shrimp, bloodworms, mosquito larvae, vegetables
- Feeding: Small portions 2–3 times daily to maintain water quality
Behavior & Compatibility
- Tank Level: Mid to bottom
- Social Structure: Best kept in pairs or small groups
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Tank Mates:
- Peaceful species like Corydoras, Tetras, Dwarf Gouramis
- Avoid aggressive or large cichlids
Breeding
- Method: Egg-layer
- Spawning Site: Flat stones or pits
- Egg Count: Up to 300
- Parental Care: Both parents guard and fan eggs; fry become free-swimming in ~5 days
- Fry Diet: Infusoria, then crushed flakes and baby brine shrimp
Specifications
Specifications
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CategoryCichlids
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Species TypeRam Cichlid
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Water Temperature
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Minimum Tank Size20 Gallons
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Water pH LevelAcidic, Neutral
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Habitat PreferenceDriftwood, Hiding Spots, Planted Tanks
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BehaviourSemi-aggressive, Community Fish
Payment & Security
Payment methods
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