Stunning Mikrogeophagus Ramirezi «Balloon» Balloon Ram Dwarf Cichlid

Stunning Mikrogeophagus Ramirezi «Balloon» Balloon Ram Dwarf Cichlid is a beautiful and unique fish that will add a touch of elegance to any aquarium. With its vibrant colors and distinctive balloon-shaped body, this fish is sure to be a standout in your collection.

Scientific and Common Names:
– Scientific Name: Mikrogeophagus ramirezi
– Common Names: Balloon Ram, Balloon Dwarf Cichlid

Habitat:
– Native to the Orinoco River basin in South America, specifically Venezuela and Colombia.
– In the wild, they inhabit slow-moving rivers, streams, and flooded areas with dense vegetation.

Tank Setup:
– A minimum tank size of 20 gallons is recommended for a pair of Balloon Rams.
– Provide plenty of hiding spots with rocks, caves, and plants to mimic their natural habitat.
– Use a sandy substrate to replicate their natural environment.
– Maintain a temperature range of 78-84°F (25-29°C) and a pH level between 5.0-7.0.
– Ensure good water filtration and regular water changes to maintain optimal water quality.

Diet and Nutrition:
– Balloon Rams are omnivorous and have a varied diet.
– Offer them a mix of high-quality flake or pellet food, supplemented with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia.
– Including some vegetable matter in their diet, such as blanched spinach or peas, is beneficial.

Size and Growth Rate:
– Balloon Rams are relatively small fish, reaching an average size of 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm).
– They have a slow growth rate and may take up to a year to reach their full size.

Behavioral Traits:
– Balloon Rams are peaceful and generally get along well with other peaceful fish species.
– They are known for their playful and curious nature, often exploring their surroundings.
– Males can be territorial, especially during breeding, so providing ample hiding spots is important.

Care Level:
– Balloon Rams are suitable for intermediate to advanced aquarists.
– They require a well-maintained aquarium with stable water parameters.

Breeding and Reproduction:
– Balloon Rams are known to be relatively easy to breed in captivity.
– Provide a separate breeding tank with soft, slightly acidic water and a temperature of around 82°F (28°C).
– The female will lay eggs on a flat surface, and the male will fertilize them.
– After spawning, the parents will guard and care for the eggs until they hatch.

Health and Disease Prevention:
– Balloon Rams are generally hardy fish but can be susceptible to common aquarium diseases.
– Maintain good water quality, provide a balanced diet, and avoid overcrowding to prevent stress and disease.
– Quarantine new fish before introducing them to the main tank to prevent the spread of diseases.

Optimal Water Conditions:
– Temperature: 78-84°F (25-29°C)
– pH: 5.0-7.0
– Hardness: Soft to slightly hard water (4-10 dGH)

Lifespan:
– With proper care, Balloon Rams can live for 3-5 years or even longer.

Additional Interesting Facts:
– Balloon Rams are a selectively bred variant of the popular German Blue Ram (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi).
– The balloon-shaped body is a result of a genetic mutation that gives them a unique appearance.
– They are known for their intense colors, including vibrant blues, yellows, and reds.
– Balloon Rams are peaceful and can be kept in a community aquarium with other small, non-aggressive fish.

Product Categories: Dwarf Cichlid, Fish

Secure Transit:
– Our 24-hour courier service ensures that your Balloon Rams are transported safely.
– We use poly boxes and heat packs during colder months to maintain optimal temperatures for the fish.

Shipping Convenience:
– Combine multiple items in one order to streamline shipping and reduce costs.

Dead on Arrival (DOA) Policy:
– In the unfortunate event that any fish arrive deceased, promptly inform us with photographic evidence.
– We will either refund you or send you a replacement to ensure your satisfaction.