German Blue Balloon Ram

German Blue Balloon Ram: The Blue Ram, also known as the German Blue Ram or Blue Ram Cichlid, is a popular freshwater fish species in the aquarium hobby. Its scientific name is Mikrogeophagus ramirezi.

The Blue Ram is native to South America, specifically the Orinoco River basin in Venezuela and Colombia. It is known for its vibrant blue coloration, with vertical black markings on its body. The males typically have longer dorsal fins and more intense coloration compared to the females.

In terms of care, Blue Rams require a well-maintained aquarium with clean water and suitable water parameters. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral water conditions, with a temperature range of 78-85°F (25-29°C). It is important to provide them with plenty of hiding spots, such as caves or plants, as they are known to be more timid and appreciate some cover.

In terms of diet, Blue Rams are omnivorous. They should be fed a varied diet that includes high-quality pellets or flakes, as well as live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.

Breeding Blue Rams can be a bit challenging, as they require specific water conditions and can be sensitive to changes. However, with the right setup and patience, they can breed successfully. The females lay eggs on flat surfaces, and both parents participate in guarding and caring for the eggs and fry.

Overall, the Blue Ram is a beautiful and captivating fish species that requires some attention to water conditions and care, but can be a rewarding addition to a well-maintained aquarium.

I. Size

• Average Adult Size: 2.5 inches (5-6 cm)
• Maximum Adult Size:  7 cm (2.7 in)
• Swimming Level: A few centimeters above the bottom.

II. You would love the fish because…

The vibrant blue accents on the German Blue Ram make it stand out.

The body is primarily gold or silver in colour, with black markings over the head, on the cranial dorsal fin, and on the dorsal side of the body.

The tips of the fins could be a little red or orange. This fish gets its name from bright spots of iridescent electric blue that cover the entire body.

Due to its demanding habitat requirements and water quality requirements, the German Blue Ram is only advised for advanced hobbyists. Any fish system has to maintain appropriate water quality, but keeping your German Blue Ram alive and healthy is especially crucial. Maintain a regular maintenance schedule and check the quality of your water frequently.

If there are too many plants, your fish won’t be able to swim freely, and if there aren’t enough caverns, cave-loving species may compete unnecessarily. To establish a space where your fish has room to swim and safely hide requires a fine balance.

 III. Is this fish species peaceful or hostile?

• Recommended: 1 or 2
• Recommended Male/Female – 1:1
• Overall friendliness : Peaceful
• Friendliness with own kind: Peaceful
• Friendliness with other species: Peaceful

IV. Species compatibility

• Corydoras catfish
• Hatchet fish
• Pencil fish
• Small tetras
• Suckermouth catfish

V. How to feed this species?

This intends that while they are carnivores they just chase down minuscule spineless creatures, fish fry, and other prey. Worms, bugs, small shrimp, daphnia, mosquito hatchlings, and different things are what they eat in nature.

Recommended food:

• Hikari Sinking Tropical Wafers

• Hikari Sinking Wafers

Word for the wise

Live Plants

All that you need

Live, frozen food

Aquarium Starter Kit

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