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Black Ram

Price

$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.

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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.

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