Electric Blue Ram 3cm

3cm
 
Overview
Synonyms
Apistogramma ramirezi, Papiliochromis ramirezi
Distribution
Original wild form is known from the Orinoco River basin in Venezuela and Colombia.
Maximum Size
7cm
Temperature
25-30°C
Water Parameters
Soft and acidic. pH: 5.0-7.0, dH: up to 8 degrees.
Compatibility
Community
Lighting
No special requirements
Sexual Dimorphism
Males with extended rays on the front of the dorsal fin. Females with a more rounded belly.
Feeding
Flake, granules and frozen foods
Description
Care

The Electric Blue Ram is a tank-bred colour strain of the Ram. In the wild, Rams are known from the Colombian and Venezuelan Llanos of the Orinoco River drainage. The Llanos is a vast, periodically flooded tropical grassland plain with an astonishing biodiversity and its own well defined weather comprising dry and rainy seasons. Rams are a peaceful, but delicate dwarf cichlid species that are recommended for experienced aquarists. The home aquarium should contain soft, acidic water and be biologically mature before these fishes are added. Ideally there will be dark substrate and dense planting, with plenty of hiding places/territories amongst rocks, driftwood, upturned flower pots, coconut shells etc. Floating plant cover could be used to help diffuse the light. Peat filtration and the addition of dried Indian Almond Leaves (Terminalia catappa) would be beneficial to help create the favoured conditions. Filtration should be efficient, but water movement gentle, and frequent partial water changes should be carried out in order to keep nitrate at a minimum (essential for the successful keeping of this species). Rams are best maintained as a male-female pair in a peaceful community setting, and should not be housed with any aggressive species which may bully them. Small groups of Rams can be kept together, but you may find that certain fish pair off, and when breeding, they can become a little territorial towards others. Tankmates should be small and peaceful and good companions could include Corydoras catfish, hatchetfish, pencilfish, small tetras, and suckermouth catfish.

Feeding

Flake, micropellets, small frozen foods such as bloodworm, white mosquito larvae, vitamin-enriched brineshrimp and daphnia.