German Blue Ram (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi)
German Blue Ram (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi) 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.
Livestock Refunds, Returns, & Surrenders
- If you are unhappy with your livestock for any reason, you can bring it back within 72 hours for a full refund; we do not pick up returns
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
-
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
-
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
-
CategoryCichlids
-
Species TypeRam Cichlid
-
Water Temperature
-
Minimum Tank Size20 Gallons
-
Water pH LevelAcidic, Neutral
-
Habitat PreferenceDriftwood, Hiding Spots, Planted Tanks
-
BehaviourSemi-aggressive, Community Fish
Payment & Security
Payment methods
Your payment information is processed securely. We do not store credit card details nor have access to your credit card information.





