German Blue Ram (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi)

German Blue Ram (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi) - Classic Wild-Type Ram for the Discerning Aquascaper

The German Blue Ram (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi) is the original wild-type form of this beloved South American dwarf cichlid, showing an iridescent wash of blue speckling over a golden-yellow body, a bold black eye stripe, and a red-tinged eye. As a wild-type ram, it is genuinely sensitive to water quality and temperature swings, and does best in a mature, stable aquarium rather than a newly set-up one.

Despite its delicate reputation, a German Blue Ram kept in warm, soft, acidic water and fed a quality diet is an active, characterful little cichlid that pairs beautifully in a planted community tank. Males develop a taller dorsal fin and more intense colour than females as they mature.

At N8 Aquatics, our fish are carefully raised and conditioned to ensure healthy stock suited to home aquariums.

Species Snapshot

• Size Sold: Juvenile, approx. 2–3 cm
• Adult Size: 6–8 cm
• Tank Size: 60–80 L, densely planted with caves/driftwood
• Temperament: Generally peaceful, can be territorial when pairing/spawning
• Temperature: 26–29°C
• pH: 6.0–7.0
• Difficulty: Moderate (wild-type strains are less forgiving of unstable water than tank-bred colour forms)

Ideal Habitat and Care

Warm, soft, stable water in a densely planted tank with driftwood and caves best replicates this species' natural Orinoco basin habitat.

• Temperature: 26–29°C
• pH: 6.0–7.0
• Water Flow: Gentle, avoiding strong currents
• Maintenance: Regular small water changes to avoid sudden parameter swings

Diet

A protein-rich diet keeps this species active and vividly coloured.

• High-quality micro pellets
• Frozen bloodworm and daphnia
• Frozen or live brine shrimp

Compatibility

Best suited to a calm, established planted community tank.

Suitable tankmates include:

• Small tetras
• Rasboras
• Corydoras

Avoid aggressive or fin-nipping species.

Why Buy From N8 Aquatics

• Carefully raised aquarium fish
• Healthy, well-conditioned stock
• Strong genetics and vibrant colouration
• Breeder support if you have questions

Pickup Information

N8 Aquatics currently operates as a local pickup-only breeder in Central Queensland.

Orders are collected by appointment after purchase confirmation.

Please ensure you are able to collect your fish before placing an order.

Important

All livestock sold by N8 Aquatics should be introduced to fully cycled aquariums suitable for the species being kept.

Please ensure your aquarium setup and tankmates are appropriate before purchasing.