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Gold Balloon Ram (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi)

$2199 CAD
Shipping calculated at checkout.
SKU: 400000022321

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.

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Gold Balloon Ram (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi)

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 
  • Water Parameters:
    • Temperature: 78–82°F (25–28°C)
    • pH: 6.0–7.0 (soft, slightly acidic)
    • Substrate: Sand or fine gravel for foraging
  • 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 
  • 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

  • Category
    Cichlids
  • Species Type
    Ram Cichlid
  • Water Temperature
    78°F to 85°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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Gold Balloon Ram (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi)  2.5cm | Cichlids Badis & Gouramis | Largest Tropical Fish Selection at Your Local Fish Store
Sunbeam Aquatics

Gold Balloon Ram (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi)

$2199 CAD

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 
  • Water Parameters:
    • Temperature: 78–82°F (25–28°C)
    • pH: 6.0–7.0 (soft, slightly acidic)
    • Substrate: Sand or fine gravel for foraging
  • 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 
  • 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.

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