German Blue Ram
Alternative Name(s): Butterfly Cichlid, GBR
Scientific Name(s): Mikrogeophagus ramirezi.
Category: Cichlid
Difficulty:
Maximum Size: 9cms
Minimum Tank Volume: 75 litres
Minimum Tank Size: 24" x 15" x 12"
Water Temperature Range: 26-30°C
Water pH Range: 5.0-6.0
Water Hardness Range: 2-10 dGH
General Information: These beautiful cichlids are from S.America. They are dwarf cichlids that live in pairs. They do very well in densely planted tanks with non aggressive fish, although when spawning they will become more aggressive.
Tank Requirements: Sandy substrate, dense planting, roots and caves for cover and for spawning. Needs a mature tank.
Diet Requirements: Omnivorous, with leanings toward carnivore diet which must be varied, based around quality cichlid pellets and inclusive of a little frozen or live food for optimal conditioning.
Compatibility: They go very well with Tetra, Corys, smaller Loaches, Plecs (smaller ones unless you have a 6ft for commons) and Rasbora. Anything that will leave them alone - they stress easily.
Recommendations: A South American themed tank with Corys, Bristle Nose Plecs, Neon Tetras, Cardinal Tetras, Otos, Pencilfish and other Tetras. They prefer higher tropical temps.
Common Problems: Nitrate sensitivity, never suitable for an uncycled aquarium. Keep nitrates under 20 ppm, prone to hexamita, Ich, and protozoan infections.
Similar Species: Gold and Electric Blue variants Bolivian Rams - tougher and only slightly less pretty - a much better choice beginners. Balloon Rams - man-made variant, best avoided due to health problems
Sexing: Females are generally smaller and have a pinkish area around the stomach. Also if you look at the black spots on the body they are broken up with blue spots on a female, males are solid black.
Breeding: Eggs are usually laid in small, hollow caves. Both parents will guard them and will not tolerate anyone getting to near so watch out. If you want to breed have a separate 20 gall tank ready when pair.
Author(s): Fishy-Fishy, Fishlady | Photo: | Views: 62537
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