Mikrogeophagus ramirezi (Ram Cichlid)
Photo © Pond Life
Family: Cichlidae
Scientific name: Mikrogeophagus ramirezi
Common name: Ram cichlid
Synonyms: Apistogramma ramirezi, Microgeophagus ramirezi, Papilochromis ramirezi, Blue Ram, Golden Ram, German Ram, Butterfly Cichlid
Origin: South America: Orinoco River basin, in the llanos of Venezuela and Colombia.
Adult size: 7cm
Lifespan: 3-4 years
Sex: The male is larger and has a longer dorsal fin. The female has a shortened second ray on the dorsal fin and a red or orange belly.
Minimum aquarium size: 50cm
Aquarium decor: Rocks, driftwood, plants
Temperature: 26-29°C
Water chemistry: pH 6-7. Hardness 5-12°dGH
Diet: Omnivore; Live, frozen, flake, tablet
Swimming level: Top, middle, bottom
Compatibility: Peaceful community fish that can be kept other peaceful dwarf cichlids and non-cichlids. Timid, does not do well with aggressive species.
Comments: Ram cichlids are very sensitive to chemicals, changes to their environment and piscine tuberculosis.
