German Blue Rams - Their Environment?

[!Gina]

I've done my research and within the next few weeks im looking to adapt my tank before purchasing a pair of german blue rams - as im ordering online with a reputable company they've assured me the male and female i get will be compatible, any problems and they'll happy return them. So i'm relatively pleased with that offer.

I've recently changed my tank to sand, which my new panda corys love. When i recieve the rams, i'll have 2 panda corys, 1 small plec, and 5 neons. All in a 22 gallon.

First of all i want to know what plants the rams prefer? I want to re-create a truely tropical environment, with lots of plants and bogwood and dark hideaways etc. What would you recommend?
I've not had any experience keeping these fish before and i want to ensure i get it right, any plants they prefer over others? or particular hideaways good for promoting breeding?

Also, what other tank mates would be good to keep with the rams? i've read mixed reports and would like to know what you've had success with yourself?
I wont be adding more fish straight away, a friend of mine is adopting my neons to start her first aquarium so i'll have enough space.. any ideas?

Thanks

 

[IMCL85]

Your tank seem fine for them, as long ur ph is keeping below 7 then they probably would breed. But one more thing is that this type of fish like to pick there own mate like discus if you just put a male and a female together they might not breed that why its suggested to buy atleast 4-5 to make sure you will get a pair. But you would need a bigger tank if you get 4-5.




Good luck
Jack

 

[!Gina]

Yeah, I was concerned about that so i e-mailed the company i usually buy from and they assured me they match the pairs before transporting them anyway, and if i have any problems with the pair they'll happy replace them or refund me.

I hope what they're saying is true, if not no doubt i'll make sure this forum hears about it But i've honestly never had any problems with their fish or service before, so fingers crossed all will be well.

I was worried about overstocking and not having enough hiding places and plants. But i'll order more and have them ready before i even think about buying the rams.

 

[Seb R]

definatly pH below 7, try to lower the hardness of your water if it is too high, as eggs will just fungass and get eaten. Good luck if they do breed, but you should be watchful of the cories and plecos, to make sure they dont eat the eggs. Personally mine are with two male guppies in a 70L, massivly understocked, but everyone is happy , might add some more male guppies, as there is no way they can eat my fry. (oh apparently dont get red guppies with Rams, I heard it makes them go crazy )

 

[Jen]

I would be interested in know what plants they like, since my tank is very heavily planted, and I'm thinking of getting a pair.

 

[BrookeLea]

I was coming here to post the same question about plants for rams. Anyone?

 

[!Gina]

Thanks for the advice, I will certainly keep an eye on the panda corys and plec lol.

I'm still curious about the plants though, i've read a few things but there doesnt seem to be a great deal of info about - and experience is always best.

 

[MET]

A few thoughts

Generally Blue Rams prefer higher temps than most fishes. 80 degrees or higher is best. Soft water with a pH below 7 is best for keeping them. For spawning you will need the pH down to 6.0 or lower.

Any plants will be fine. You will probably be limited more by the plants that survive soft water and warm temps. I have good luck with:
Watersprite
Java Moss
Java Fern
Various crypts

Rams are not cave spawners so there is no need to provide caves.

Although the parents will try to protect the eggs and fry, Rams are not very agressive fish. I would be especially concerned about the cory cats.

Neons are fine dithers. I also recommend pencil fish.

Allowing a pair to choose each other naturally is usually the best way to go but I have usually found that any two fish will pair in given proper conditions.

If you really want to learn more about these great little fish I reccomend the book Mergus Cichlid Atlas, Vol. 1 by Uwe Romer. It extensively covers all of the South American dwarf cichlids. More info on the book at http/www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/388...ontanaexotic-20

 

[!Gina]

Thanks alot for the advice and i'll add the book to my christmas list

I'm pleased to hear they like java moss and various crypts, as i added some to my tank just today! its looking wonderful. Also, my panda corys are still really young and i've even seen the neon tetras chasing them about, so fingers crossed any eggs should be fine.