German Ram Cichlid - Mikrogeophagus Ramirezi

The first selectively bred form of this fish was produced by German aquarists and these robust and colourful 'German Blue' rams are not as widespread as the over use of this name would suggest.. Origin:. Orinoco River basin, Venezuela and Colombia.. Diet:. Flake, micropellets, small frozen foods such as mosquito larvae, brineshrimp and daphnia.. Tank Mates:. Small groups of Rams can be kept together, but you may find that certain fish pair off, and when breeding, they can become a little territorial towards others.. Behavioural Traits:. They are best maintained as a male-female pair in a peaceful community setting with lots of plants and caves. They must only be kept in softwater aquaria, and should not be housed with any aggressive species which may bully them.. Experience Level:. Rams are a peaceful, but delicate dwarf cichlid species that are recommended for experienced aquarists.. Water Parameters:. Temperature:. 25-30°C. pH: 5.0-7.0. dH: up to 8 degrees. Synonyms. Apistogramma ramirezi, Papiliochromis ramirezi. Distribution. Orinoco River basin, Venezuela and Colombia.. Maximum Size. 7cm. Temperature. 25-30°C. Water Parameters. Soft and acidic. pH: 5.0-7.0, dH: up to 8 degrees.. Compatibility. Community. Lighting. No special requirements. Sexual Dimorphism. Males larger with more extended finnage. Females show pronounced blue spangling around the midlateral black spot with a more round and pink coloured belly when in spawning condition.. Feeding. Flake, granules and frozen foods