GOLDEN RAM BALLOON VEILTAIL

Dwarf Gold Ram Cichlid: A Peaceful and Vibrant Aquarium Addition

The Dwarf Gold Ram Cichlid (Microgeophagus ramirezi) is a stunning dwarf cichlid known for its brilliant golden colour and gentle nature. This beautiful fish adds a splash of brightness to any community aquarium. Its manageable size and calm temperament make it a perfect choice for aquarists of all levels, from beginners to experts.

Tank Setup for Dwarf Gold Ram Cichlids

A 70-liter tank is ideal for a pair of Dwarf Gold Ram Cichlids. Use fine sand as the substrate, along with plants, driftwood, and rocks to provide hiding spots and mimic their natural environment. They thrive in water temperatures between 24°C–28°C, with a pH range of 6.0–7.5. Stable water conditions and regular maintenance are essential to keep them healthy and stress-free.

Diet and Feeding

These cichlids are omnivorous and need a varied diet for optimal health. Offer high-quality cichlid pellets or flakes as a staple, complemented by live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia. Occasionally include blanched vegetables like spinach or peas for a balanced diet. Feeding a mix of foods helps enhance their vibrant golden hue and keeps them active.

Behavior and Tank Mates

The Dwarf Gold Ram Cichlid is a peaceful species, making it an excellent choice for community tanks. They coexist well with non-aggressive fish like tetras, rasboras, and Corydoras. Avoid pairing them with larger or aggressive species that might cause stress. Adding plenty of plants and decor creates hiding spaces, helping them feel secure in their environment.

Breeding Dwarf Gold Ram Cichlids

Breeding these cichlids is a rewarding experience for aquarists. They are substrate spawners, choosing flat surfaces like rocks or leaves to lay their eggs. Both parents actively guard the eggs and fry, showcasing strong parental care. To encourage breeding, maintain the water temperature around 28°C and provide smooth surfaces for spawning. Feed fry finely crushed flakes or baby brine shrimp to support healthy development.

FAQs

How big do Dwarf Gold Ram Cichlids grow?
They typically grow up to 5–7 cm, making them suitable for small tanks.

Are they aggressive?
They are peaceful but may show territorial behaviour during breeding.

What tank mates are suitable?
Non-aggressive species like tetras, rasboras, and Corydoras are ideal companions.

What do they eat?
They thrive on cichlid pellets, live or frozen foods, and occasional vegetables.

How do they breed?
They are substrate spawners, with both parents actively guarding their eggs and fry.

Species Overview

• Species: Microgeophagus ramirezi
• Common Name: Golden rams
• Origin: South America
• Diet: Omnivore
• PH Range: 6.0–7.5
• Temperature: 24°C–28°C
• Max Size: Up to 7 cm
• Tank Size: Minimum 70 liters