German Black Ram Dwarf Cichlid (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi "German Black") - Tank Bred

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This very new and rare color variety is in very high demand and we have very healthy subadult USA bred specimens!

The German Black Ram Cichlid (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi “German Black”) is a very new and very rare variant of its species. This particular variant is known for the much higher amount of black coloration that is displayed in both males and females. Rams and other dwarf cichlids are very popular among aquarists due to their vivid coloration, small size, and interesting personalities. Most dwarf cichlids are much less aggressive than most larger cichlids. The German Black Ram Cichlid is not known to breed true, and is initially more delicate and reportedly somewhat more aggressive than most other color varieties of its species. These factors are all contributors to its rarity.

The German Black Ram Cichlid will thrive in an aquarium with a sandy substrate and plenty of refuge such as clay pots, driftwood, and rock formations. It is an excellent candidate for the planted aquarium, but it also needs a fair amount of open space. This cichlid is generally compatible with other peaceful fish as long as it has plenty of space. Territoriality is typically at its peak during spawning.  Dwarf shrimp and other small, delicate invertebrates should not be kept with the German Black Ram Cichlid, but more durable, larger shrimp and snails could possibly make good tankmates in a large enough aquarium. If spawning is desired, tankmates of other species should be kept to a minimum or avoided altogether.

Feeding is simple for the unfussy German Black Ram Cichlid. High-quality dry, frozen, and live meaty foods will all be readily accepted. Quality and variety are the keys to a diet that will ensure that this fish maintains optimal health and coloration.

We are offering sub-adult specimens of this magnificent variety. They are already displaying superb coloration. We are not currently offereing sexed specimens, but may do so in the future if possible.

What We Like About This Fish:

• Higher black coloration in both males and females
• Hardy with plenty of personality once established in the aquarium
• Possible to breed in the aquarium
• Compatible with many other species in a spacious tank
• Thrives in the planted aquarium

RECOMMENDED TANK PARAMETERS:

• Temperature:  78.8° - 86° F (26° - 30° C), although 82°+ F (28°+ C) is optimal
• pH:  6.0 - 7.5, tank-bred specimens are more flexible regarding pH level
• KH:  0 - 10 KH
• Minimum tank size:  20-30 gallons for a small group, but a larger aquarium should be used for a community of several species

CARE GUIDELINES:

• Diet:  Carnivorous. A variety of high-quality dry, frozen, and live meaty foods is necessary for optimal health and coloration.
• Social behavior:  Congregates loosely in groups. Males can be territorial when attempting to spawn and females are very protective of their eggs during spawning.
• Origin:  Tank-bred, but indigenous to South America
• Average adult size:  1.4 – 1.6 inches
• Average purchase size:  1 – 1.2 inches (2.5 – 3 cm)