Black Ram
$30.00
The black ram (sometimes called black German ram or dark knight ram) is another selectively bred version of Mikrogeophagus ramirezi. These guys have a deep, velvety black or charcoal coloration that covers most (sometimes all) of their body. It’s a very dramatic and striking look compared to the usual colorful varieties.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
Size: Similar to other rams — about 2–3 inches (5–7.5 cm).
Temperament: Peaceful and shy like other rams, but can get territorial if they’re breeding.
Water parameters: Warm (78–85°F / 25–29°C), soft water, slightly acidic (pH 6.0–7.0).
Tank setup: Heavily planted tanks, low flow, plenty of hiding spaces — they like feeling secure.
Diet: Same omnivorous diet — flakes, high-quality pellets, frozen foods, live treats like bloodworms.
Lifespan: Around 2–4 years with good care.
Fun fact:
The black color in black rams is from a genetic mutation that increases melanin production. They can sometimes show a little bit of blue or gold sheen depending on the lighting, which looks amazing.
Quantity
Care Guide
Tank Requirements
Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons for a pair
Water Temperature: 78 °F to 85°F (25.5°C to 29°C)
pH Level: 6.0–7.5 (prefers slightly acidic)
Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (3–12 dGH)
Filtration: Strong biological filtration but with a gentle current
Aquascaping: Sand or fine substrate, with plenty of hiding places (plants, caves, driftwood)
Water Quality
German Blue Rams are very sensitive to poor water quality!
Maintain:
Ammonia and nitrites: 0 ppm
Nitrates: Below 20 ppm
Weekly 30–50% water changes are crucial.
Feeding
Diet: Omnivorous — thrives on a varied, high-protein diet
Good foods include:
Daphnia, brine shrimp
High-quality micro pellets for cichlids
Occasional vegetable matter like spirulina flakes
Feed 2–3 small meals a day.
Tankmates
Best kept with peaceful community fish that enjoy warm, soft water:
Cardinal tetras
Rummy nose tetras
Corydoras catfish (warm-tolerant varieties)
Hatchetfish
Plecos (small species like bristlenose)
Avoid: Fin-nippers, aggressive fish, and large, boisterous tankmates.
Breeding
Rams form monogamous pairs.
They lay eggs on flat surfaces (like rocks or broad leaves).
Both parents tend the eggs and fry.
Breeding is best in separate tanks with slightly warmer water (around 82°F or 28°C) and very clean conditions.
Common Challenges
Stress: A major cause of health problems; needs calm environments.
Short lifespan: Even under the best care, 3–5 years is typical.
Disease sensitivity: Prone to ich, parasites, and bacterial infections if water parameters fluctuate.
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Bonus Tips for Happy German Blue Rams
Provide lots of hiding spots — driftwood, caves, or dense plants.
Keep their tank mates peaceful and calm — loud or nippy fish stress them out.
Soft, warm water is key — if your tap water is hard, you might need RO (reverse osmosis) water.
Watch their behavior — a healthy Ram will be curious, colorful, and actively exploring.
