Gold Balloon Ram (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi)
Gold Balloon 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.
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.
Gold Balloon Ram (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi)
Description
Description
Gold Balloon Ram (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi) Is a vibrant, compact dwarf cichlid variant, selectively bred for its round body shape and golden coloration.
Appearance & Traits
- Coloration: Bright yellow-gold body with blue speckling, red eyes, and sometimes a white belly
- Body Shape: The “balloon” trait refers to a short-bodied, rounded form, which is a result of selective breeding
- Size: Max adult size is around 2 inches (5 cm); the 2.5 cm size is juvenile
- Fins: Elongated dorsal and anal fins with reddish or orange highlights
Tank Requirements
- Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 L) for a pair or small group
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Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 78–82°F (25–28°C)
- pH: 6.0–7.0 (soft, slightly acidic)
- Substrate: Sand or fine gravel for foraging
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Aquascaping:
- Include plants, driftwood, and leaf litter for shelter and spawning
- Provide territory zones to reduce aggression
Diet
- Omnivorous, but prone to digestive issues due to compact body shape
- Recommended foods:
- Micro pellets, crushed flakes
- Frozen/live foods: baby brine shrimp, bloodworms (in small portions)
- Avoid overfeeding to prevent bloating and blockages
Behavior & Compatibility
- Temperament: Peaceful but territorial during breeding
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Tank Mates:
- Good: Cardinal tetras, Corydoras, Discus, Angelfish, other balloon rams
- Avoid: Large or aggressive cichlids (e.g., Oscars)
- Social Structure: Best kept in groups of 4–6 to allow natural pairing and reduce aggression
Breeding
- Form monogamous pairs that spawn on flat surfaces like leaves or rocks
- Lay up to 200 adhesive eggs, which are guarded and fanned by both parents.
- Fry hatch in 24–36 hours; feed with infusoria or powdered fry food.
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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