Description
Remarks: Rams (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi) have been popular in the hobby for decades for their brilliant colors and easy reproduction. They are small cichlids from South America that rarely grow larger than 2″. Their name, “Small Eartheater,” gives clues about their feeding mechanism: They sift sand through their mouths and gills, swallowing small bits of food. As such, sand is necessary for the long-term health of these fish. They seem to like their water warmer than most other fish, so it is advised to keep the water as close to 80 as possible.
Reproduction is achieved when a pair decides upon a suitable cave or flat surface. They may excavate small craters in the sand to use as a spawning site – something that is very fun to watch! Eggs are laid and guarded by the parents until they are free-swimming, at which time the parents will parade the fry around the tank, eating small bits of food stuck to tank decor. Dither fish such as small tetras will give the parents something to target with their aggression, hopefully saving themselves from each other.
Scientific Name: Mikrogeophagus ramirezi
Common Name: Gold Ram
Max Size: 2″
pH: 5.0-8.0
Hardness: Soft
Temperature: 70-82
Aggressiveness: Peaceful
Region of Origin: South America
Captive Bred or Wild: Captive Bred
Diet: Small flake or pellet, small frozen or live foods
Compatibility: Schooling fish, plecos, small catfish, livebearers, rainbowfish.
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