Black Ram Cichlid (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi)

Black Ram Cichlid (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi) – Elegant Contrast and Gentle Personality

Bring bold contrast and refined elegance to your freshwater aquarium with the Black Ram Cichlid, a stunning, selectively bred variant of the beloved German Blue Ram. Known for its dramatic, velvety black body and peaceful temperament, the Black Ram makes a unique and eye-catching addition to planted community tanks.

This fish’s deep, inky coloration stands out beautifully against lush greenery and natural substrates, making it a perfect choice for aquarists seeking a more artistic and sophisticated look. Despite its exotic appearance, the Black Ram is a peaceful species that thrives in calm environments with stable water parameters and gentle tankmates.

Quick Facts:

Scientific Name: Mikrogeophagus ramirezi (Black Morph)

Common Names: Black Ram, Dark Ram, Black German Ram

Adult Size: Up to 2.5 inches (6.4 cm)

Lifespan: 2–4 years with proper care

Temperament: Peaceful, social

Origin: Selectively bred from South American dwarf cichlids

Aquarium Requirements:

Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons for a pair

Water Temperature: 78–85°F (25–29°C)

pH Range: 6.0–7.0 (soft, slightly acidic water preferred)

Hardness: 2–10 dGH

Tank Setup: Well-planted with open swimming areas, smooth rocks, and driftwood for cover. Low-flow filtration and stable parameters are essential.

Behavior & Compatibility:

Black Rams are peaceful dwarf cichlids that thrive when kept in pairs or small groups. While they may show territorial behavior during spawning, they are generally safe with small, non-aggressive tankmates such as:

Tetras

Rasboras

Corydoras catfish

Dwarf gouramis

Peaceful livebearers

Avoid housing them with aggressive or fin-nipping species, as the Black Ram is sensitive to stress.

Feeding:

These fish are omnivores and do well on a varied diet. Offer a mix of:

High-quality pellets or micro granules

Frozen or live foods like brine shrimp, bloodworms, or daphnia

Occasional blanched vegetables for variety

Feed small portions 1–2 times daily, and remove uneaten food to maintain water quality.

Breeding Notes:

Black Rams can be bred in captivity and may form monogamous pairs. When ready, the female will lay eggs on a flat surface, and both parents may guard the nest. Soft, warm water and a peaceful tank environment can increase breeding success.

Why Choose the Black Ram from Nautilus Tropical Fish?

Health Guarantee: All fish are quarantined and health-checked before shipping

Expert Care: Raised in optimal conditions for easy acclimation to your tank

Live Arrival Guarantee: Carefully packaged with insulated shipping for safe delivery

Add this stunning, peaceful centerpiece to your aquarium today – the Black Ram offers beauty, charm, and personality all in one small, elegant package.