💙 German Blue Ram Care Guide (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi)
🌟 Overview The German Blue Ram (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi) is a striking dwarf cichlid known for its iridescent blue scales, yellow body, and red highlights. Native to the Orinoco River basin in Venezuela and Colombia, this small but colorful cichlid is popular for planted aquariums and peaceful community setups. While slightly more demanding than beginner fish, German Blue Rams reward aquarists with their vibrant beauty and fascinating behaviors.
🔑 Quick Facts
- Scientific Name: Mikrogeophagus ramirezi
- Common Names: German Blue Ram, Blue Ram Cichlid, Ramirezi
- Origin: South America (Orinoco River Basin)
- Size: 2–3 inches (5–7.5 cm)
- Lifespan: 2–4 years (sometimes longer with excellent care)
- Temperament: Peaceful, semi-territorial (especially when breeding)
- Care Level: Moderate to Advanced
🏠 Tank Requirements
- Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons (best in pairs or small groups)
- Water Temperature: 78–85°F (25–29°C)
- pH: 5.5–7.0 (slightly acidic preferred)
- Hardness: 3–10 dGH
- Aquascape: Planted tank with driftwood, caves, and sandy substrate
- Filtration: Gentle flow, pristine water quality essential
🍽️ Diet
German Blue Rams are omnivores and thrive on a variety of foods:
- High-quality micro-pellets & cichlid flakes
- Frozen/live foods: bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia
- Occasional blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach, peas)
- A varied diet helps intensify colors and support breeding
🧑🤝🧑 Tank Mates
- Peaceful community fish: tetras, rasboras, corydoras, small loaches, dwarf gouramis
- Avoid aggressive or fin-nipping fish (barbs, large cichlids)
- Shrimp and snails can work but may be at risk during breeding
🧠 Behavior & Tips
- Keep as pairs or small groups in larger tanks
- Males are slightly larger with longer dorsal fins; females show more pink on the belly
- Sensitive to poor water quality — perform regular water changes
- Known to form monogamous pairs and exhibit strong parental care during breeding
❓ FAQ
Q: Are German Blue Rams beginner-friendly?
A: Not the best for beginners. They require stable, warm, clean water and can be sensitive to poor conditions.
Q: Can German Blue Rams live in community tanks?
A: Yes, they are peaceful and do well with other calm, small fish. Provide hiding spots to reduce stress.
Q: How long do German Blue Rams live?
A: Typically 2–4 years, though some live longer with excellent care.
Q: Can I keep more than one pair?
A: Yes, but only in a large enough tank with territories and line-of-sight breaks.
