Description
Balloon Electric Blue Ram Cichlid
📌 Basic Info
Scientific Name: Mikrogeophagus ramirezi (Balloon Electric Blue variety)
Family: Cichlidae
Origin: Captive-bred (selective breeding, not wild)
Size: 2 – 3 inches (5 – 7 cm)
Lifespan: 2 – 3 years (shorter due to balloon body)
Tank Zone: Mid to Bottom
🌊 Water Parameters
TDS: 80 – 120 ppm
pH: 6.0 – 7.2
Temperature: 26 – 30°C (79 – 86°F)
Hardness: 3 – 10 dGH
🐟 Characteristics
Striking electric blue shimmering body with a short, rounded “balloon” shape.
Smaller and more delicate than standard rams.
Peaceful, social, and best in a calm tank.
Sensitive to poor water quality – needs stable parameters.
🍽️ Food
Type: Omnivorous
Diet: High-quality micro pellets, frozen/live brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia, and blanched veggies.
Feeding: 2–3 times daily in small amounts.
🛠️ Maintenance
Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons for a pair.
Filtration: Gentle but efficient – clean water is critical.
Decor: Plants, driftwood, caves for hiding.
Water Change: 25–30% weekly.
👥 Social Behavior
Minimum Group Size: Keep as a pair or small group (2–4).
Tank Mates: Peaceful community fish like tetras, corydoras, guppies, mollies.
Avoid: Aggressive cichlids or fin-nippers.
✅ Do’s
Keep them in warm, stable, clean water.
Provide hiding spots and live plants.
Feed a varied, protein-rich diet.
❌ Don’ts
Don’t keep with aggressive or large predatory fish.
Don’t expose to sudden water parameter changes.
Don’t overcrowd – they stress easily.
⭐ Quick Tips
A stunning centerpiece for small aquariums.
Needs extra care compared to normal Rams.
Perfect for peaceful, planted community tanks.
