Ram cichlid or German blue ram, one of its popular alternate names, is a freshwater fish indigenous to certain parts of South America. Harry and George S. Myers initially described it as Apistogramma ramirezi until it acquired its present name. However, the wild form has been bred and developed to include numerous strains (morphs) most of which are sold under the many different names used to refer to the blue ram cichlid.

for shelter when there is aggression especially during the breeding period. As with other cichlids, hiding places should be provided for your Blue Ram Cichlid with decorations, aquarium plants etc. R.R.

Blue Ram Cichlid Types Technically, the dwarf butterfly cichlid (blue ram) is a single species of freshwater fish and a member of the family Cichlidae and subfamily Geophaginae.

The Ram Cichlid, Mikrogeophagus ramirezi, is a popular choice for beginners as it is one of the few Cichlids that are very peaceful.They also stay fairly small and reach a maximum size of approximately 3 inches (7.6 cm). They grow between 2 to 3 inches (5 - 7.5 cm), the female being the bigger of the two with a life span of approximately 3 years. It took its name after Manuel Ramirez, who collected and imported this fish species for the aquarium trade. Wild specimens have been found to be twice this size, however, it is unusual in the majority of home aquariums to get this big unless the tank is large.