Balloon Blue Ram 3.5cm

Balloon Blue Ram
 

The Balloon Blue Ram is a truly unique and quirky fish. These fish are in almost every way the same as the common and globally loved common blue ram with the one difference being genetics. These fish carry a genetic trait that leads to them having a more compact and rounded body than a standard elongated fish shape, this trait is often commonly called the “short body” or “balloon” gene. The balloon blue ram is still one of the world's most popular dwarf cichlids and is considered to be one of the most striking fish in the aquarium industry. They are popularised due to the wide array of striking and bold colours, a great personality along the perfect compact size for those keeping smaller aquariums. Because of these reasons and their slight challenge to keep they are a highly demanded fish globally.

Though common blue rams are already considered to be challenging fish due to their sensitive nature and high-temperature requirement the balloon blue ram should have extra care taken. Their compact body often leads to their digestive system being easily prone to blockage and bloating which is why they should be fed in minimal quantities with the food they can easily process. the common blue rams that originate from South America will develop a rainbow of colours through their body. When adult size they will have a range of oranges, yellows, reds, pinks, purples, whites, blacks, and as their name suggests a metallic blue sheen and star-like patterning which makes them an absolute spotlight in the aquarium. Their colours work in such a way that it is both a perfect blend yet an eye-catching contrast and the biggest benefit is the balloon blue ram has all of these amazing colours. Coupled with their bold personalities these fish quickly win over so many aquarists.

Their care is often regarded to be similar to the prized discus which is why blue rams and discus are often kept together. Ballon Blue rams are regarded as a community fish as they are peaceful and remain fairly small at 7cm max. They are also bred fairly easily in captivity however differentiating males and females is slightly difficult as both males and females have a compact body, however, the male's dorsal fin ends in more of a point. However, the best method to identify is to get a pack of 4-6 rams and let them naturally pair off. 

Tank Recommendations for your Balloon Blue Rams

Being a dwarf cichlid, balloon blue rams can be kept in smaller aquariums however the minimum would be around 60 liters (20 gallons). as always though a larger aquarium would be far better and making sure there is a decent floor space can avoid any territorial behavior that balloon blue rams may exhibit. Sand or small grain gravel substrate would be fine for these fish as they do routinely sift through the substrate looking for food and make breeding pits to rear fry as well. Blue rams would be kept with others of their kind to make them feel comfortable and be more active in the aquarium, this may also even reduce aggression they could show to other fish. They are also soft water fish meaning they require a low PH. They can be kept in PH as low as 6 which makes them a great planted aquarium species.

Suitable Tank Buddies

TheBalloon Blue Ram is a fairly peaceful fish that only may display aggression in territorial disputes however can be kept with a wide range of community fish. 

Usually Compatible

Discus, Angelfish, cardinal tetras, Corydoras, and other rams

Sometimes Compatible

Larger peaceful South American cichlids such as Uaru, Severums however there is a high chance these fish may outcompete the rams. The balloon blue rams are mostly bottom-dwelling so fish that would not interfere with their feeding is recommended 

Rarely Compatible

Large and aggressive species such as Oscars which may prey on the balloon blue rams

Feeding your Ballon Blue Rams

Balloon Blue Ram are fairly easy to feed. They will take a wide range of pellets, flakes, and frozen foods. However, due to their compact nature, it is best to offer micro foods such as crushed pellets or flake and food that is easily digestible. just like any fish though they should be fed a varied diet with a mix of different foods. The ideal diet would be a good quality micro slow sinking pellet or crushed flake, supplemented with frozen bloodworms or black worms or even live foods like baby brine shrimp or micro worms in small portions.