Local Bred

German Rams (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi)

Endemic Location: Orinoco River (River basin in the savannahs of Venezuela and Colombia)

Climate: Tropical

Maximum Size: 5 – 7.5 cm (2 – 3 inches)

Temperament: Peaceful

Diet: Omnivore. Small insects and plant material.

Breeding: Easy

Temperature Range: 25.5 – 29.5 ℃ (78 – 85 ℉)

Preferred pH Range: 5.2 – 6.7

Minimum Aquarium Size: 113 L per (30 gallons)

Potential Tankmates: Kuhli loaches, Neon Tetras, Clown loaches

Care Level: Intermediate

The German Ram is a popular aquarium species for the bright yellowish-green, and blue colours they can bring to your aquarium. However, they suit those among intermediate level keeping hobbyist. They are a member of the Cichlidae family. Most cichlids are not well suited to community tanks. But, a male and female pair of German Rams can be the delightful exception you did not know you wanted. But, you will need to keep the water parameters just right!

If you wish to add non-fish inhabitants into your tank with these fishes, make sure they will not fit in the German Rams mouth. Otherwise, they’ll likely become a tasty snack. When introduced to your tank, they may refuse to eat straight away. Don’t fret too fast, like some of us they will need time to settle. They thrive best and may even school with small, like-minded peacekeepers. Avoid putting them in a tank with aggressive species and larger Cichlids. These colourful critters are curious about their surroundings.

Be sure to introduce a German Ram into an established aquarium. One that has been up and running for at least six months. Their environment will play a large role in maintaining its peaceful nature. They can become stressed and show signs of aggression when not fed enough, don’t feel safe or cannot find places to hide. These sensitive fish love a variety of plants, wood, rocks and crevices in their environment. Make sure to perform frequent water changes. Provide a decent filtration system as German Rams like consistent water conditions.

The first few rays of the dorsal fin appear extended on males, and their bodies will grow to a slightly larger size than females. A blue sheen below the dorsal fin, or scattering blue scales, also appears on females. The only times they should show aggression is during their breeding period. Nowadays, German Rams are considered easier to breed. When this time occurs, the female German Rams will have pink or reddish blush on their abdomen. Care for the eggs and fry is shared between both parents.

All our fish are quarantined on arrival for two weeks. During this time, they are treated for any possible diseases and given a complete health check  to make sure they are health, happy and eating well before being placed in our display aquariums, ready for sale.

Dead on Arrival (DOA) Policy: In the unfortunate event that your fish arrives dead, please follow these steps: Within 12 hours of the delivery, take clear, unopened bag pictures showing the deceased fish. Send these photographs and your order number to our customer service email at [email protected] or to our Facebook page and we will then offer a refund or store credit for the cost of the fish. 

Two-Week Guarantee Policy: We stand behind the health and quality of our fish, which is why we offer a two-week guarantee starting from the day of delivery. If your fish dies within this time frame, adhere to the following procedure: Take clear photos of the deceased fish. Using a reliable test kit, document via a dated photo, water parameters (pH, ammonia, nitrate, nitrite levels). Please email us the photographs, water parameters, and order number to [email protected] or our Facebook page. After reviewing your claim, if approved, we will issue a store credit for the cost of the fish. Our two-week guarantee does not cover fish deaths due to unsuitable water conditions, incompatible tank mates or “disasters” i.e. a heater overheating. We recommend thoroughly researching each fish species' needs before introducing them to your aquarium to prevent such situations. 

 Freight Charges: Please note that shipping or freight charges are non-refundable under all circumstances. We hope this guide makes our refund and guarantee process more understandable. If you have any questions or need further clarification, please get in touch with us at [email protected]. We are always happy to assist. Thank you for choosing The Fish Room. Happy fish keeping!