Dark German blue ram ( 3 pcs)

Description

Size – 1 inch

The Dark German Blue Ram (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi), also known as the Dark Blue Ram or simply German Blue Ram, is a selectively bred color morph of the popular German Blue Ram cichlid. This freshwater dwarf cichlid is prized for its striking iridescent blue coloration with a darker, more intense hue than the standard variety, combined with a calm and peaceful temperament.

Key Characteristics

1. Appearance:
   • Color: Deep, vibrant blue body with a darker, almost black overlay, giving it a “shadowed” or darkened effect. The iridescence varies under different lighting.
   • Markings: Often features faint black vertical bars on the body and a darker face and dorsal area.
   • Size: Typically grows to about 2–3 inches (5–7.5 cm).
   • Fins: Long, flowing fins with hints of red, orange, or black, depending on the individual.
2. Behavior:
   • Peaceful and territorial, especially during breeding.
   • Generally shy but can be curious and interactive once acclimated to their environment.
   • Prefers to inhabit the lower to mid-levels of the aquarium.
3. Lifespan:
   • With proper care, they can live 3–5 years.

Natural Habitat

Though the Dark German Blue Ram is a captive-bred variant, its wild ancestors originate from the warm, slow-moving waters of the Orinoco River basin in South America, where they inhabit densely vegetated areas with sandy substrates.

Tank Requirements

1. Tank Size:
   • A minimum of 20 gallons for a pair, with additional space if keeping multiple pairs.
2. Water Parameters:
   • Temperature: 78–85°F (25–29°C). They thrive in warmer water.
   • pH: 5.5–7.0 (slightly acidic).
   • Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water (1–10 dGH).
   • Filtration: Provide gentle filtration with minimal water flow to replicate their natural habitat.
3. Tank Setup:
   • Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel. Dark substrates enhance their coloration.
   • Plants: Provide dense vegetation with plants like Amazon swords, Java ferns, and Anubias.
   • Hiding Spots: Include driftwood, caves, and rock formations for shelter.
   • Lighting: Moderate to low lighting helps mimic their natural environment and enhances their colors.

Diet

Dark German Blue Rams are omnivores and require a varied diet for optimal health and coloration.

• Staple Diet: High-quality cichlid pellets or flakes.
• Live/Frozen Foods:
  • Bloodworms
  • Brine shrimp
  • Daphnia
  • Blackworms
• Vegetable Matter: Occasionally offer blanched spinach, zucchini, or spirulina-based foods.

Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily, ensuring they consume the food within a few minutes.

Tankmates

Due to their peaceful nature, Dark German Blue Rams can coexist with other non-aggressive species. Suitable tankmates include:

• Tetras (e.g., Neon, Cardinal, Rummy-nose Tetras)
• Rasboras (e.g., Harlequin, Espei Rasboras)
• Dwarf Gouramis
• Corydoras Catfish
• Otocinclus
• Small Plecos (e.g., Clown Pleco)
• Shrimp and Snails: Larger shrimp species like Amano shrimp are generally safe, though small shrimp may be eaten.

Avoid housing them with larger, aggressive fish or fast-swimming fin nippers.

Breeding Dark German Blue Rams

1. Sexing:
   • Males: Slightly larger with longer, more pointed dorsal and anal fins. The front of their dorsal fin may have a more pronounced black spot.
   • Females: Smaller, rounder, and may display a pinkish hue on the belly when ready to breed.
2. Spawning:
   • Provide a flat, smooth surface (rock or leaf) for egg-laying.
   • Soft, acidic water with a temperature around 82–85°F (28–29°C) stimulates breeding.
   • After spawning, the female guards the eggs, while the male defends the territory.
3. Raising Fry:
   • Eggs hatch in 2–3 days, and fry become free-swimming in about 5–7 days.
   • Feed fry with infusoria or powdered fry food initially, followed by baby brine shrimp as they grow.

Care Tips

• Water Quality: Maintain excellent water quality with regular water changes (20–30% weekly).
• Temperature Stability: Ensure stable water temperatures, as Rams are sensitive to fluctuations.
• Acclimation: They are sensitive to new environments, so acclimate them slowly when introducing them to a new tank.

Benefits of Dark German Blue Rams

• Their striking dark blue coloration adds a dramatic, eye-catching centerpiece to any aquarium.
• Peaceful demeanor makes them suitable for community tanks.
• Their inquisitive and interactive behavior makes them a favorite among aquarists.

The Dark German Blue Ram is a stunning, peaceful fish that adds beauty and personality to any planted or community aquarium, making it a favorite among both novice and experienced aquarists.