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German Black Ram (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi)

$4499 CAD
Shipping calculated at checkout.
SKU: 36736841086814

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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.

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German Black Ram (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi)

Description

German Black Ram, a variant of the Mikrogeophagus ramirezi, is a stunning and relatively new addition to the world of freshwater aquarium fish. Here's a comprehensive overview of its characteristics, care requirements, and ideal habitat:

Overview

  • Scientific Name: Mikrogeophagus ramirezi 'Black'
  • Common Names: German Black Ram, Dark Knight Ram
  • Size: Typically 2–3 inches (5–7.5 cm)
  • Lifespan: 2–4 years
  • Temperament: Peaceful, though males may show territorial behavior
  • Origin: Line-bred variant, not found in the wild; developed through selective breeding

Appearance

  • Deep, velvety black body with iridescent blue highlights
  • Males are usually larger with more elongated dorsal fins
  • Females may show a pinkish belly, especially during breeding

Tank Setup

  • Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons for a pair; larger if in a community
  • Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel
  • Decor: Driftwood, rocks, and live plants like Java fern or moss for hiding spots
  • Lighting: Moderate to low to enhance coloration and reduce stress

💧 Water Parameters

  • Temperature: 78–85°F (25–29°C)
  • pH: 5.5–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
  • Hardness: 3–10 dGH
  • Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
  • Nitrate: <30 ppm
  • Note: Sensitive to water quality—frequent partial water changes are essential [1]

Diet

  • Type: Omnivore and micropredator
  • Staples: High-quality cichlid pellets or flakes
  • Supplements: Frozen or live foods like brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia
  • Vegetables: Occasional blanched spinach or zucchini
  • Feeding Frequency: 2–3 times daily in small portions 

Breeding

  • Behavior: Form monogamous pairs; males may court females with displays
  • Spawning: Lay 100–300 eggs on flat surfaces
  • Parental Care: Both parents guard and fan the eggs
  • Fry Care: Feed infusoria or liquid fry food once free-swimming 

Tank Mates

  • Compatible: Peaceful species like tetras, rasboras, Corydoras, Otocinclus
  • Avoid: Aggressive or fin-nipping fish

 

Specifications
  • Category
    Cichlids
  • Species Type
    Ram Cichlid
  • Water Temperature
    80°F to 86°F
  • Minimum Tank Size
    20 Gallons
  • Water pH Level
    Acidic, Neutral
  • Habitat Preference
    Driftwood, Hiding Spots, Planted Tanks
  • Behaviour
    Semi-aggressive, Community Fish

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Sunbeam Aquatics

German Black Ram (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi)

$4499 CAD

German Black Ram, a variant of the Mikrogeophagus ramirezi, is a stunning and relatively new addition to the world of freshwater aquarium fish. Here's a comprehensive overview of its characteristics, care requirements, and ideal habitat:

Overview

  • Scientific Name: Mikrogeophagus ramirezi 'Black'
  • Common Names: German Black Ram, Dark Knight Ram
  • Size: Typically 2–3 inches (5–7.5 cm)
  • Lifespan: 2–4 years
  • Temperament: Peaceful, though males may show territorial behavior
  • Origin: Line-bred variant, not found in the wild; developed through selective breeding

Appearance

  • Deep, velvety black body with iridescent blue highlights
  • Males are usually larger with more elongated dorsal fins
  • Females may show a pinkish belly, especially during breeding

Tank Setup

  • Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons for a pair; larger if in a community
  • Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel
  • Decor: Driftwood, rocks, and live plants like Java fern or moss for hiding spots
  • Lighting: Moderate to low to enhance coloration and reduce stress

💧 Water Parameters

  • Temperature: 78–85°F (25–29°C)
  • pH: 5.5–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
  • Hardness: 3–10 dGH
  • Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
  • Nitrate: <30 ppm
  • Note: Sensitive to water quality—frequent partial water changes are essential [1]

Diet

  • Type: Omnivore and micropredator
  • Staples: High-quality cichlid pellets or flakes
  • Supplements: Frozen or live foods like brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia
  • Vegetables: Occasional blanched spinach or zucchini
  • Feeding Frequency: 2–3 times daily in small portions 

Breeding

  • Behavior: Form monogamous pairs; males may court females with displays
  • Spawning: Lay 100–300 eggs on flat surfaces
  • Parental Care: Both parents guard and fan the eggs
  • Fry Care: Feed infusoria or liquid fry food once free-swimming 

Tank Mates

  • Compatible: Peaceful species like tetras, rasboras, Corydoras, Otocinclus
  • Avoid: Aggressive or fin-nipping fish

 


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