Ram Cichlids a dwarf Cichlid species has become one of the most popular fish to have in an aquarium. From their wonderful colors to their great personalities, the question becomes not if a ram cichlid should be added to your tank, but simply which type of ram cichlid should you choose.
Five main types of ram cichlids are found in the aquarium hobby. This includes the Bolivian Ram, Electric Blue Ram, German Blue Ram, Golden Ram, and the newest variant the German Black Ram.
| Ram Cichlid Type | German Blue Ram | Electric Blue Ram | Bolivian Ram | Golden Ram | German Black Ram |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Colors | Blue, Orange, Red, Black | Light Blue | Brownish Gold, Red, Black | Yellow/Gold | Black, Blue, Orange/Red |
| Size | 2-2.5 inches | 2-2.5 inches | 2.5-3 inches | 2-2.5 inches | 2-2.5 inches |
| pH | 6-7.5 | 6-7.5 | 6-7.5 | 6-7.5 | 6-7.5 |
| Water Temp. | 84-86 | 78.8-86 | 75-82.4 | 82-86 | 78.8-86 |
| Tank Size | 20-30 Gallons | 20-30 Gallons | 20-30 Gallons | 20-30 Gallons | 20-30 Gallons |
We can now explore how these five types of ram cichlids separate themselves from each other, including some basic requirements for each variant. We will then give some tips to help when adding this species to a tank.
German Blue Ram
The German Blue Ram is considered the most popular type of ram cichlid. Though the name may suggest that this fish is from Germany, it hails from South America. One thing that makes this type of ram so popular is the fact that as a dwarf species, it can be placed in most tanks, while still having striking colors not found frequently in this size of fish. This variant of ram is normally recommended to have water temperatures between 78.8 and 86 degrees, but not like some of the other types, would greatly prefer higher temperatures above 84 degrees.
Electric Blue Ram
Slightly different from some of the other Ram Cichlids, the Electric Blue Ram shows a pretty uniform, striking light blue throughout its entire body. This variant was tank-bred specifically for its spectacular color. Like other variants, they prefer a pH that hovers between 6 and 7.5 but can handle higher pH if acclimated. They enjoy water temperatures between 78.8 and 86 degrees, with the ideal water temperature of above 82 degrees.
Bolivian Ram
Maybe not as well-known as its popular cousin, the German Blue Ram, The Bolivian Ram is possibly the hardiest of the five types. Known for its golden-brown body, red highlights on its fins, and accented by a black dot on its body and black line that can be seen on the front of its dorsal fin and run across the eye, it can make a beautiful tank addition. Unlike other variants, the Bolivian Ram prefers slightly colored waters that range from 75 to 82.4 degrees. It is suggested to have them in water with pH levels between 6 and 7.5, but they have been known to adapt well to water that varies from this.
Golden Ram
The Golden Ram is a vibrant colored variant of the German Blue Ram, but because of its striking color generally considered another type. This tank-bred line is revered for its bright yellowish/gold color, with light blue and red accents found across various areas of its body. This variant like other rams prefers water temperatures between 78.8 to 86 degrees, with an optimal temperature being above 82 degrees. They also enjoy a pH between 6 to 7.5 but can be acclimated to slightly different levels.
German Black Ram
The newest and probably rarest variant of the Ram Cichlid species, the German Black Ram is best known for its increased black coloration that can be seen in both males and females. They like the other Ram Cichlids are indigenous to South America, however, with the species, it is more common to have been tank-bred. The temperatures for them to thrive are around 78.8 to 86 degrees, however above 82 degrees would be considered ideal, they generally are kept at a pH between 6 and 7.5 but can be flexible.
Commonalities Between Ram Cichlid Variants
Though each of these variants has characteristics that make them distinctly different from each other, there are some commonalities between them. The Ram Cichlid species as a whole is indigenous to South America; however, any variant of the Ram Cichlid likely purchased would be tank-bred.
The Ram Cichlid is a sifter feeder, meaning that it sifts through the substrate to eat. Because of this, it is highly recommended to have a sandy substrate if you decide to add them to your tank.
They are typically also a very peaceful species, and in most cases will not fight other tank mates for food, because of this you should be diligent in ensuring they can get adequate food, especially if other tank mates are aggressive eaters, that will eat from the water surface.
If kept in a small group of just Ram Cichlids, a 20-30 gallon tank would be suggested, however, if wanting to have a large group, or have them included with a community tank something larger such as a 40 breeder would make a better choice.
With these commonalities, particularly with water parameters being similar for the majority of the variations, there may be a question of whether these variations can be kept together in the same tank. I’ve written an article all about answering the question if Ram Cichlid variations can be kept together and if they should be.
Conclusion
Each of the five types of Ram Cichild brings a striking appearance, small size, and an easy-going personality. As long as your tank’s size allows it, you should consider bringing this species into your aquarium. No matter which variant you choose, it will make a great addition to your tank.