FishChecker

The German Blue Ram (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi) is a truly captivating dwarf cichlid, highly prized by aquarists for its stunning coloration and engaging personality. Originating from South American river basins, this species boasts a vibrant palette of iridescent blues, greens, and yellows, often accentuated by a prominent black spot on its flank and a distinctive red or orange patch on its belly, especially noticeable in males. Females tend to be slightly less colorful and have a pinker belly when breeding. Growing to an average size of 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm), they are perfectly suited for smaller to medium-sized community aquariums. German Blue Rams are generally peaceful, though males can exhibit territorial behavior, particularly when spawning. They thrive in well-planted tanks with soft, acidic water (pH 5.5-7.0) and warmer temperatures (78-85°F or 25.5-29.5°C). A fine sand substrate is preferred, as they enjoy sifting through it, and plenty of hiding spots among driftwood and caves are essential to make them feel secure. They are omnivores, readily accepting high-quality flake, pellet, frozen, and live foods. While generally good community fish, avoid keeping them with very boisterous or nippy tankmates. Their intricate beauty, fascinating breeding behaviors, and relatively manageable size make the German Blue Ram a jewel of the freshwater aquarium, perfect for intermediate to advanced hobbyists looking to add a splash of living art to their home.

Sensitive to water parameters.