So, let’s chat about my newest aquarium crush: the German Blue Ram. Try and Picture this: a tiny, vibrant fish that turns your aquarium from meh to wow. But, oh boy, do they have a bit of an ego!
They’re like the divas of the fish world, not too keen on sharing the spotlight with anyone who dares to match their size or flashy looks. It’s like having a mini, underwater version of a drama-filled reality TV show.
Diving into the aquarium hobby? Or maybe looking to sprinkle a little extra flair into your fish collection? German Blue Rams are definitely the way to go. They’re pretty easy to take care of, which is good for newbies.
However, there’s a catch (isn’t there always? ): these little celebrities have their own list of must-haves to keep them healthy and happy. This isn’t just about giving them a place to swim; it’s about creating the perfect setup, picking the right tank mates, and understanding all the little details that make them thrive.
I’m here to walk you through what makes these fish so special, how to care for them, and how to make sure your tank is the perfect backdrop for their stunning colors.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to add some drama (the fun kind) to your aquarium, let’s explore how to give German Blue Rams the star treatment they demand.
Contents
German Blue Ram Origin
The German Blue Ram is freshwater fish that originates from the Amazon Basin in South America, particularly in Venezuela and Colombia.
They are also known by their scientific name as Mikrogeophagus ramirezi, and they are part of the Cichlid family. This kind of fish is known for its bright blue coloration and their long, flowing fins.
German Blue Ram behavior
German Blue Ram fish are relatively easy to care for, making them a good choice for beginner aquarium owners. They are also peaceful fish that do well in community tanks.
German Blue Ram fish require a tank with plenty of open space for swimming, as well as some hiding places. They prefer warm water, so an aquarium heater may be necessary.
These peaceful fish do well in community tanks. They should be kept with other small, peaceful fish that will not bother them. German Blue Rams are also very active and enjoy swimming around the tank.
They may sometimes chase each other or other tank mates, but this is usually just for fun and not out of aggression. Because they are quite sensitive to changes in water quality, keep this fish in an aquarium with regular water changes and a good filtration system.
This fish will thrive if given a nutritious diet and proper water conditions.
German Blue Ram appearance
The German Blue Ram is a fish with a bright yellowish, almost green body and head.
Their eyes are reddish in color, and their fins are yellow or red with blue lines that are nearly transparent. The front dorsal fin is generally black, and males have broader dorsal fins than females.
Its body is oval-shaped with a pointed tail and fins. Sexual dimorphism is visible both in the colors but also in the shape of their fins. Females usually are characterized by a pink-orange belly and are usually smaller than males.
Size
On average a German Blue Ram grows to be from 2 inches to around 2.5 inches long and is considered a small Cichlid.
Colors
The German Blue Ram is a fish that stands out because of its bright blue markings. The body is gold/silver, with black markings on the head and dorsal side.
At the tips of the fins, they may be slightly red or orange. Bright patches of electric blue light up the whole body, which is why it is called the German Blue Ram.
Habitat and tank conditions
Native to the waterways of South America, German Blue Rams prefer slow-flowing rivers with sandy beds and plenty of vegetation, which often darkens the surrounding waters. In the wild, German Blue Rams typically inhabit shallow pools and streams.
When kept as pets, they should be kept in an aquarium that mimics their natural habitat as closely as possible. The tank should have a sandy bottom, plenty of plants (both aquatic and submerged), and only moderate water movement.
Tank size
Though they are small, German Blue Rams still need plenty of space to swim and explore. Generally, one should plan for around 10 gallons of water per Ram.
If you plan to keep multiple Rams, it’s best to err on the side of caution and choose a larger tank. In addition to size, water quality is also important for German Blue Rams.
Be sure to keep an eye on your nitrate levels and perform regular water changes to keep your fish happy and healthy. With a little care, German Blue Rams can be a delightful addition to any home aquarium.
Tank setup
The German Blue Ram is a sensitive fish that needs a specific type of environment to thrive. They prefer a temperature range of 78-85 degrees Fahrenheit, with a pH level of 6.0-7.5.
The water hardness should be between 6 and 14 dGH, and the water current should be slow to moderate. They also like a tank that is heavily planted with lots of hiding places, and you can use rocks or driftwood for this.
Make sure to leave some space for free swimming when arranging the plants. It’s important to remember that this species of fish should only be introduced in an aquatic environment that has already undergone an excellent filtration system.
Tank mates
German Blue Rams are a popular choice for community aquariums, thanks to their vibrant colors and relatively peaceful nature. But what kind of fish can you keep with them in the same tank?
Generally speaking, German Blue Rams do best with other non-Cichlids and peaceful Dwarf Cichlids. They need a peaceful community as they will struggle in an aggressive tank.
Some good tank companions for German Blue Rams are Silver Dollars, Dwarf Gouramis, Discus, Plecostomus Catfish, Cardinal Tetras, and Neon Tetras. Other great tank mates include Corydoras, Rummynose Tetras, Kuhli Loaches, Clown Loaches, Guppies, Mollies, and Platies.
On the other hand, you should avoid large aggressive fish such as the Green Terror. These fish are likely to view the Ram as a threat and could cause serious injury.
Second, if you’re planning on adding any non-fish inhabitants to the tank (e.g. shrimp or snails), make sure that they are too large to fit into the Ram’s mouth. Otherwise, they may become an unintended meal.
Finally, if you notice the Ram starting to show signs of aggression (e.g. chasing other fish or nipping at fins), it could be a sign that they don’t have enough hiding places and don’t feel safe. If this is the case, try adding some more plants or decorations to the tank.
Before putting different kinds of fish in one tank, be sure to do your research to make sure that you will choose those fish that will thrive in the same environment.
Can you keep German Blue Rams together?
When it comes to keeping German Blue Rams, there are a few things to keep in mind. For starters, you can keep them either as a pair or alone.
If you decide to keep more than one male, make sure the aquarium is large enough to have two separate territories. This will help prevent aggression between the fish.
Alternatively, you can allow the fish to pair themselves up by buying several juveniles and letting them choose their own mates. If you do this, be sure to remove any fish that don’t form a pair, as they may become aggressive towards the other Rams.
Care
Caring for a German Blue Ram is not rocket science. Like caring for any other fish, it requires understanding key differences in species behavior, environmental requirements as well as proper nutrition.
With a solid understanding of these key care points, you will be rewarded with a longer and healthier quality of life for your German Blue Ram.
Environment
This fish is quite sensitive to water parameters (especially nitrate levels), so it is not wise to place this fish in a new aquarium. It needs frequent water changes, at least once a week.
Try to replace 10%-20% of the tank water once a week, and if your tank is heavily stocked, then you will need to refill it more frequently.
If water quality is neglected, it can have significant effects on your fish’s health. When replacing the water, the water added should be treated and be at a temperature that is comfortable for the fish.
Remember that German Blue Rams cannot survive in an environment hotter than 98°F.
Diet and food
Rams are omnivores and eat both meat and plants. In the wild, they typically feed on small insects or invertebrates, as well as plant material floating in the water.
When settling into a new tank, Rams might appear skittish and refuse to eat. This is normal behavior and they will usually start eating again once they have acclimated to their new surroundings.
To convince them to eat, you can try tempting them with live mosquito larvae or other tasty food. Once they are eating regularly, you can feed them 2-5 small pinches of food a day.
A varied diet including pellets, flakes, vegetables, and plants is best for maintaining water quality and keeping your Rams healthy. Smaller, more frequent meals are better than one large feeding per day.
Common diseases
Failure to give the fish a proper environment will lead to diseases that are related to poor water management and oxygenation, like fish tuberculosis.
Fish tuberculosis is caused by a similar microbe that causes human TB, the mycobacterium marinum. These free-swimming mycobacteria can be found in both freshwater and marine habitats.
Common symptoms of fish tuberculosis include your fish becoming thinner, ulcers around the head or body of the fish, gray-white nodules, dropsy and popping eyes.
This disease can be treated with specific antibiotics that generally must be prescribed by a Vet.
If one of your fish got infected, all of the equipment in the tank will need to be sterilized and new plants and substrate should be put in.
Breeding German Blue Rams
In case you are interested in breeding German Blue Rams, there’s good news: it’s often successful in captivity.
If you’re keeping German Blue Rams in your home aquarium, you may be able to encourage breeding behavior by keeping a small group of Rams together.
Alternatively, you can set up a separate breeding tank. Creating the proper climate is critical for success. The tank should contain between 10 and 20 gallons of water.
It’s also important to maintain the correct water conditions. German Blue Rams prefer slightly acidic water. A number of hiding places and a big plant of Java moss or similar algae would be beneficial.
To encourage breeding, you can provide the Rams with live foods, such as brine shrimp or blood worms. You may also want to add a spawning mop or piece of yarn to the tank for the female to lay her eggs on.
Once the eggs are laid, the parents should be removed from the tank, as they may eat the eggs. The eggs will hatch in about three days, and the fry will be free-swimming after another week.
At this point, you can start feeding them baby brine shrimp or other small live foods. If all goes well, you’ll soon have a new generation of German Blue Rams.
FAQs on German Blue Ram Care and Species Profile
What is the ideal tank size for a German Blue Ram?
For a pair of German Blue Rams, a minimum tank size of 20 gallons is recommended. This allows enough space for them to establish territories and reduces stress.
How do I ensure proper German Blue Ram care?
Proper care involves maintaining clean, warm water (around 78-85°F), a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, and regular feeding with a varied diet. Providing hiding places and a peaceful environment is also crucial.
Can German Blue Rams be kept with other fish?
Yes, German Blue Rams can be kept with other peaceful fish of similar size. Avoid overly aggressive species or those small enough to be seen as prey.
What should I feed my German Blue Ram?
Their diet should include a mix of high-quality flake food, frozen or live foods like brine shrimp and daphnia. Occasional vegetable supplements can also be beneficial.
Are German Blue Rams good for community tanks?
German Blue Rams are excellent for community tanks as they are generally peaceful. However, they do best in a tank with non-aggressive tank mates and similar water requirements.
How often should I feed my Blue Ram Cichlid?
Feed your Blue Ram Cichlid small amounts 2-3 times a day. Overfeeding can lead to poor water quality and health issues.
What are some common health issues in German Blue Rams?
They are susceptible to typical freshwater ailments, but poor water conditions can lead to more severe issues like ich or bacterial infections. Regular tank maintenance is key to preventing these problems.
Can I keep multiple German Blue Rams together?
Yes, they can be kept in pairs or small groups, but ensure your tank has enough space and hiding spots to prevent territorial disputes.
What are the breeding habits of German Blue Rams?
They are substrate spawners and often lay eggs on flat surfaces. Providing a stress-free environment with optimal water conditions is essential for successful breeding.
How do I distinguish between male and female German Blue Rams?
Males generally have more extended dorsal and anal fins and are slightly larger. Females often have a more rounded belly and might display a pinkish color when ready to breed.
By understanding the specific needs of the German Blue Ram, you can enjoy the vibrant beauty and dynamic behavior of these fascinating cichlids in your home aquarium. Remember, consistent care and a suitable environment are the keys to keeping these beautiful fish healthy and happy.
Conclusion
German Blue Rams are an interesting fish to keep in a freshwater tank. They are not difficult to care for, but do require some specific water conditions.
This freshwater fish is a popular choice for aquariums because they are relatively easy to care for and they get along well with other fish. Maintenance is relatively less complicated compared to other breeds and is generally less expensive.
They are a perfect size for smaller tanks and do well in groups. German Blue Rams are peaceful fish but can be bullied by larger, more aggressive fish.
Breeding is often successful in captivity, and fry is relatively easy to care for. This fish’s nature makes it a relatively ideal fish for the beginner to the intermediate breeder
Ian Sterling, founder of Fishlab.com, began his aquarium journey over 30 years ago, driven by a deep fascination for fish and their diverse personalities. His website, Fishlab.com, is dedicated to making fishkeeping accessible and enjoyable, offering beginner-friendly guidance, expert insights, and a community for aquarists to connect and share experiences.