German Gold Ram (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi (gold variety)) is a intermediate-level freshwater fish that needs at least 20 gallons and 78-85°F. A golden form of the ram cichlid. Needs warm, clean water and stable conditions.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Mikrogeophagus ramirezi (gold variety) |
|---|---|
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Origin | Captive-bred |
| Adult size | 2.5 in |
| Minimum tank | 20 gallons |
| Temperature | 78-85°F |
| pH | 5.5-7.0 |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Social behavior | Pairs |
| Swim level | Bottom to mid |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Diet | Omnivore: micro pellets, frozen foods |
| Typical lifespan | 2-4 years |
Quick tips
- Keep warm and stable.
- Feed small foods.
San Diego water
Prefers softer, more acidic water than San Diego's tap (pH roughly 7.6-8.6, hard). Most keepers blend tap with RO/DI water or use a remineralized RO/DI supply. Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi