German Blue Ram

Mikrogeophagus ramirezi

Also known as: Ram Cichlid, Butterfly Cichlid

Formerly: Papiliochromis ramirezi

A jewel-colored dwarf cichlid that demands warm, soft, spotless water.

Water

Freshwater

Temperature

78–85°F

pH

5–7

Hardness

2–10 dGH

Max size

2.5 in

Min tank

20 gal

Temperament

Peaceful

Social

Pair

Swim level

All

Diet

Omnivore

Care level

Advanced

Lifespan

2-4 years

Breeding

Egg-depositor

Suitability

Common

Origin

Orinoco basin (Venezuela, Colombia)

Rams are stunning but sensitive — they need high temperatures, soft acidic water, and excellent quality, and farmed stock can be fragile. A bonded pair in a calm tank is the ideal.