Ram
From Microcosm Aquarium Explorer
Spawning pair with golden eggs deposited on smooth stone. Neil Hepworth
[edit] Overview
One of the best-liked of the dwarf cichlids, a gorgeous gold and metallic blue fish with all the spirit and personality of its family. There are several color strains available, including a veiltail variety.
Family: Cichlidae
Other common name(s):
- Butterfly Dwarf
- "Mikrogeophagus" ram
Native range:
Habitat: M. ramirezi prefers soft, acidic water (pH 6.5) and high temperature (77-86° F or 25-30° C). Because it is extremely sensitive about water quality, perform frequent partial water changes. Prefers an aquarium with lots of cover and open swimming spaces as well.
Maximum length: 6 cm (2 in)
Minimum aquarium size: 19 L (5 gal)
Water: Freshwater 27 °C (300 K, 81 °F) - 30 °C (303 K, 86 °F)
General swimming level: Bottom to midwater.
[edit] Feeding
Omnivore. Rams will accept a wide variety of small prepared foods and should also be offered frozen, live and freeze-dried foods, such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, krill and mosquito larvae.
[edit] Aquarium Compatibility
Small or peaceful tankmates that will tolerate higher temperatures. Acquire one male to several females and let them pair up. Unfortunately, the Ram is relatively short-lived in the aquarium (1-2 years).
[edit] Breeding/Propagation
The Ram is a monogamous species that forms pair bonds, and spawns in the open, typically on a flat surface. They will vigorously defend their young.
[edit] Notes
Easily spooked; place tank in an area with little or no traffic. Provide tank background—painted a dark color or given a scenic background.
| Common name | Ram +, Butterfly Dwarf +, and "Mikrogeophagus" ram + |
| Family | Cichlidae + |
| Genus | Microgeophagus + |
| Image credit | NH + |
| Maximum length | 2 in + |
| Minimum aquarium size | 5 gal + |
| Native range | South America +, Venezuela +, and Orinoco River Basin + |
| Reference | 101 Best Tropical Fishes + |
| Specific name | ramirezi + |
| Swimming level | Bottom to midwater. + |
| Text credit | KW + |
| Water max temp | 303 K (30 °C, 86 °F) + |
| Water min temp | 300 K (27 °C, 81 °F) + |
| Water type | Freshwater + |