GOLDEN ROUND RAMIREZ

(Mikrogeophagus ramirezi) are native to South America, where they inhabit the slow-flowing waterways of the Orinoco River basin in Colombia and Venezuela. These bodies of water are warm, acidic, and densely vegetated. The fish favors tannin-stained environments, like Blackwater river, that are sheltered from the sun.

Adult Size & Lifespan

Adult German blue rams grow 2 to 3 inches in length, with males being larger than females. In the wild, German blue rams can grow up to 4 inches.

Colors, Patterns, Fins, and Sex Differences

has a yellowish-blue, oval body that’s covered in bright, blue dots. The fish also has a dark vertical stripe that runs through the eyes, and a black blotch in the middle of the body. The fins are spiky, long, and yellow or red, with dark edging. The front dorsal is typically black.

 has bright red eyes, which makes the fish look intimidating despite its peaceful nature. The fish’s flank is paler than the rest of its body. Some German blue rams have additional black stripes across their bodies. 

Males and female are hard to tell apart, but not impossible. Females are typically smaller and less vibrant than males, and often have a subtle, blue shade in their mid-lateral blotch. Females also develop a reddish-pink belly during spawning. Males usually have extended dorsal fins.

Typical Behavior

are active, peaceful, and social fish that spend most of their time exploring the mid and bottom levels of the tank, or hiding among rocks or dense vegetation. These fish keep to themselves, though they do get along well with their own kind as long as there’s enough space and shelter in the tank. Males and females often form pairs. It's can get territorial during mating season. Keep more females than males in the tank to help reduce territorial aggression. These fish are intelligent and can recognize their owners, often swimming to the top of the tank in anticipation of food whenever the owners approach.

Habitat and Tank Requirements

live in soft, acidic, slow-moving water that’s sheltered from light and stained from decaying leaf litter. Dense vegetation, and plenty of spots where the fish can take refuge, help the species feel safe.

German blue rams are active fish that require a 20-gallon tank or larger. The water must be kept between 80°F and 86°F and on the acidic side.

 set up various hiding spots throughout the tank with caves, driftwood, and plants, and keep the lighting dim. Add sterilized leaf litter at the top of the tank and avoid filtration systems that generate strong currents. Use a dark-hued, soft substrate to bring out the German blue ram’s vibrant coloration.

Tank Conditions

Tank Mates

even-tempered fish that gets along well with similar-sized, docile species. Tankmates should share the same habitat preferences. Avoid fish that are boisterous, large, or aggressive.

Great tank mates included:

• Silver dollar fish
• Dwarf gouramis
• Bristlenose plecos
• Kuhli loach
• Peaceful tetras, like the cardinal tetra and neon tetra
• Corydoras
  
  

Diet and Feeding

omnivores. In the wild, these fish’s diet consists of plant material, insects, and small invertebrates.  in captivity with pellets, flakes, and the occasional leafy vegetable. Live and frozen foods help bring out the fish’s coloration. Suitable live and frozen foods include brine shrimp, cyclops, and bloodworms. Food should be small enough to fit into the mouth.