Ram Cichlids originate from the Orinoco River basin in Venezuela and Columbia.  They are Dwarf Cichlids.  Their official scientific name is Mikrogeophagus ramirezi, but they are also referred to as Microgeophagus ramirezi, Apistogramma ramerizi and Papiliochromis ramirezi.  Common names include the Butterfly Cichlid, Blue Ram, Gold Ram, Golden Ram, Gold German Ram, Blue German Ram, German Blue Ram and Singapore Ram.  The names are based on color variations.  The Blue Ram, pictured above, has iridescent blue flecks and black bands. The males are more colourful than the females.

The Ram Cichlid is peaceful and moves slowly.  It does well in groups and will benefit from pairing.  A thick plant background with Amazon swords and hiding places is ideal.  Tank mates should be of a similar size and disposition.  Ram Cichlids eat flake foods.  Rams are very sensitive to water conditions and will stress easily, so they are not suited to the beginning aquarist..  Clear water and proper pH are essential.  Water changes should be performed frequently.

German Blue Ram males have a more developed dorsal fin and lack any blue coloration in the black spot in the middle of the body.  Males have pronounced black spiking at the front of the dorsal fin. Females are slightly smaller and are more pink on the underside.  Provide two females with the male for breeding.  Use soft water.  Blue Rams spawn in the open and lay about 100 eggs.  The parents will tend the young.  The fry will hatch in a couple of days and will be ready for feeding live brine shrimp in just under a week.

For further detailed information on breeding link to ZMan.

Tim's Tropical Fish Information about freshwater and saltwater tropical fish, fish care, fish facts, compatibility and aquarium maintenance.