Black Ram - (No Online Purchases)

Name: Black Ram Cichlid (Black German Ram)

Scientific Name:Mikrogeophagus ramirezi (Black Variety)

Description: A stunning and peaceful dwarf cichlid featuring a deep charcoal-black to velvety dark body, often highlighted by subtle metallic blue or purple iridescence. The Black Ram is a selectively bred colour variety of the popular German Blue Ram, prized for its striking appearance and elegant finnage. Males typically develop longer, more pointed dorsal fins, while females are generally smaller with a rounder body. Known for their interesting personalities and beautiful colouration, Black Rams make an eye-catching addition to peaceful tropical aquariums.

Origin: South America – the wild species originates from the Orinoco River basin in Venezuela and Colombia. The Black Ram variety has been developed through selective breeding in captivity.

pH: Approximately 5.5–7.0

Temperature: Around 27–30°C

Adult Size: Approximately 5–7 cm

Lifespan: Approximately 2–4 years with proper care.

Food: Omnivorous. Accepts high-quality sinking micro pellets, specialised dwarf cichlid foods and a variety of live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp and daphnia. A varied, protein-rich diet helps maintain healthy growth, strong colouration and overall condition. Feed small portions regularly and ensure food reaches the lower levels of the aquarium.

Compatibility: Generally peaceful and suitable for community aquariums with other small, non-aggressive fish that tolerate warmer water temperatures, such as Cardinal Tetras, Rummy Nose Tetras and peaceful Corydoras species suited to higher temperatures. Black Rams can become territorial when breeding, particularly around their chosen spawning sites. Best kept individually or as a compatible pair, with adequate space and hiding places. Avoid large aggressive cichlids, fin-nipping species and overly active fish that may cause stress.

Habitat: Prefers a well-established, heavily planted aquarium with fine sand substrate, driftwood, smooth rocks and plenty of shaded hiding places. Gentle water movement, subdued lighting and excellent filtration are recommended. Black Rams thrive in warm, soft, slightly acidic water with stable conditions. They are particularly sensitive to poor water quality and sudden changes in temperature or water chemistry, making mature aquariums with regular water changes essential. Provide open areas for foraging and flat stones or sheltered surfaces that may be used for spawning.