American Cichlid – Balloon Black Rams “Imported” – 3cm

Balloon Black Ram Cichlid (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi) – A Unique Dwarf Cichlid for Peaceful Tanks

The Balloon Black Ram Cichlid (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi) is a fascinating freshwater fish prized for its velvety black hues and rounded body shape. This selectively bred variety of the German Blue Ram thrives in calm aquariums with live plants and gentle tank mates. Furthermore, their peaceful temperament and manageable size make them ideal for aquarists of all skill levels.

Size and Lifespan

These cichlids grow up to 5–6 cm, making them ideal for smaller tanks. With proper care, they live for 3–4 years. To help them thrive, maintain pristine water quality and a balanced diet. Their striking black colouration intensifies in stress-free environments with clean water and good nutrition.

Tank Size and Setup

A 50-litre tank is sufficient for a pair of these dwarf cichlids. Use live plants, driftwood, and a soft substrate to mimic their natural environment. Additionally, maintain water temperatures between 24–28°C and a pH range of 6.0–7.5. Regular water changes and strong filtration are essential for their health. Furthermore, adding shaded areas or gentle currents encourages natural behaviours and keeps them comfortable.

Tank Mates for Balloon Black Rams

These peaceful fish thrive in community tanks with compatible companions. Good tank mates include neon tetras, Corydoras, rasboras, and small gouramis. Avoid larger or aggressive species that could stress them. Additionally, providing plenty of hiding spaces ensures all tank inhabitants remain secure and stress-free.

Feeding

This cichlid thrives on a varied omnivorous diet. Provide high-quality micro pellets or flakes as a staple food. Supplement their diet with live or frozen treats like brine shrimp, bloodworms, or daphnia to enhance their health and colour. Feed them twice daily in small portions to avoid overfeeding. Additionally, occasional blanched vegetables such as spinach or zucchini can add vital nutrients.

Breeding

Breeding these cichlids is possible with stable water conditions and proper care. Males are slightly larger, while females develop a pinkish belly when ready to spawn. They prefer flat surfaces or broad leaves for egg-laying. Both parents protect their eggs and fry, showing remarkable care. Feed the fry with infusoria or baby brine shrimp to ensure healthy growth. Maintaining a clean, stable environment encourages successful breeding.

Species Overview

• Species: Mikrogeophagus ramirezi
• Common Name: Balloon Black Ram Cichlid
• Origin: Captive-bred variation
• Diet: Omnivore
• PH Range: 6.0–7.5
• Temperature: 24–28°C
• Max Size: 5–6 cm
• Tank Size: 50 litres

FAQs

1. Are these cichlids beginner-friendly?
Yes, their peaceful nature and simple care requirements make them suitable for beginners.

2. Can they live in planted tanks?
Yes, they thrive in tanks with live plants, which replicate their natural habitat and provide cover.

3. How often should they be fed?
Feed them twice daily with a mix of flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods.

4. What are good tank mates?
Compatible companions include tetras, rasboras, Corydoras, and small gouramis.

5. How can I enhance their black colouration?
Provide clean water, a stress-free environment, and a varied diet to enhance their velvety hues.

Add the elegant Balloon Black Ram Cichlid to your aquarium today! Their striking appearance, peaceful nature, and compact size make them a standout addition to community tanks. Order now to transform your setup!