Black Ramirezi 3cm

Black Ram
 

The black ram is the newest entry in the growing colour variations of German blue rams. This specific colour strain has also become the most expensive and coveted due to its rarity and unique aesthetic. The origins of this strain are not exactly clear however black rams carry the melanism gene which makes most, if not all of their body jet black which is a stark contrast to all the other vibrant colour strains of blue rams. Black rams however do have the same care requirements as common rams but they may be slightly more sensitive based of genetics. 

Black rams are also commonly known as dark night rams because of their jet-black colouration. Part of their popularity is quite possibly a shock value factor of how different these fish look compared to the common rams. The body of these fish is a deep black gradient with minimal blue spots coming through on the tips of their scales. The only other splash of colour will usually be on the fins which have a deep red or brown colour with some minimal spotting as well. The presence of the melanism gene is just a fluke genetic occurrence, but it can be further developed through breeding. In many cases inbreeding of melanism gene present fish is common which increases the level of black however this can also result in increasing other factors like aggression or sensitivity. This is why black rams are best suited for experienced aquarists. Black rams are a tropical species however their temperature requirements are slightly higher at around 28 degrees when compared to other tropical fish.

Black rams can be regarded as community fish as they are peaceful and remain fairly small at 7cm max. They are also bred fairly easily in captivity and differentiating males and females is possible where the male's body is more elongated than that of a female, and the male's dorsal fin also 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.  A pair will usually lay eggs on a secluded smooth surface in the aquarium and guard the fry until they reach a free-swimming stage. 

Tank Recommendations for your Black Rams

Being a dwarf cichlid, black rams can be kept in smaller aquariums however the minimum would be around 70 litres for a pair. As always though, a larger aquarium would be far better and making sure there is a decent floor space can avoid any territorial behaviour that these rams may exhibit. They will also prefer a well-planted aquarium and hiding places like caves. A sand or small grain gravel substrate would be fine for these fish as they do routinely sift through the sand for food and make breeding pits in the substrate as well.

Black 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.

Suitable Tank Buddies

The black ram is a fairly peaceful fish but may display higher levels of aggression compared to other ram strains. They can however 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 and other fish may outcompete them as they are mostly bottom-dwelling fish. They may also eat extremely nano fish such as endlers. 

Rarely Compatible

Large and aggressive species such as African cichlids or Oscars may prey on the black rams.

Feeding your Black Rams

Black rams are very easy to feed. They will take a wide range of pellets, flakes and frozen foods. 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.