Worried About My Female Gbr

[Toffeeapple]

Hi everyone.


I'm a bit worried about my female blue ram. She seems to be spending a lot of time at the top of the tank sitting very still, whereas she usually spends her time at the bottom with the male. I've also noticed that her belly is a lot pinker than usual.

The temperature and water levels are the same as they always are and the other fish in the tank are fine.

Any advice or suggestions about what might be wrong?

Thanks!

 

[Gilli]

Pinker belly indicates she is coming into breeding - maybe she is avoiding the male as they can hassle at this time?

 

[Toffeeapple]

Thanks Gilli, I did think that because the lfs said the two I got had already paired off when I bought them. Fingers crossed that's what it is! I'll just keep an eye on her and hopefully she'll get back to her usual self.

 

[Gilli]

Rams do sulk if they are unhappy! My female sometimes gets stressed if I dont pay her enough attention and I can always cheer her up by feeding her favourite squished snails which she takes from my hand. Try changing her diet - they do need 'meaty foods' and a good varied diet. You will know if they are unhappy as they tend to lose their briliant flourescent colours turn a pale colour and a dark black line appears along their body.

They really are endearing little characters and the more time you spend with them the more they will react with you - they are my favourite fish!