FishProfiles.com Message Forums

Gang,

I would like to add a pair of either for my next tank. It is way to early to do so, I don’t
even have the tank yet, but the question is on my mind for quite a while now.

I know that the German (a.k.a. Blue) Ram [Mikrogeophagus ramirezi] is more colorful,
which is the main reason why I have a slight preference for this one right now. I am curious
to find out more differences between the two. The profile for the Bolivian [Mikrogeophagus
altispinosus] says he is an easier alternative, why?

Thanks,

Ingo

---

Proud Member of the New Jersey Aquatic Gardeners Club

[font color="#000080"]Bolivan rams[/font]
Bolivian rams are tougher, hardier fish than the Germans. They're only a little bit less colorful, and grow larger than the German rams. They also have slightly larger mouths, and will be able to eat larger foods than the small-mouthed German rams. Bolivian rams are easier to get breeding, and the fry from these fish are tougher as well.

[font color="#000080"]German rams[/font]
German rams are considered as more beautiful fish than Bolivian rams; the pink bellies of many females and the dorsal fin spikes of most males are part of the reason. These rams are probably a little less territorial than the Bolivian rams, though neither species tends to be aggressive towards fish other than themselves or similar dwarf cichlids (except when breeding). German rams are found in several varieties; there are gold Germans, "Singapore" rams, and balloon rams. Personally, I do not care for any of these variants, and prefer the natural ram look.

Having kept both of these species (though not for very long), I prefer the Bolivian rams. I can't really explain why, I just like them. Don't get me wrong though, the Germans are nice fish too.

---

And when he gets to Heaven, to Saint Peter he will tell: "One more Marine reporting, Sir! I've served my time in Hell."

I'd go with the German rams over the Bolivian rams.

Firstly because of the looks, which is obvious.

Secondly, there's the behaviour. I find the German rams much more interesting than that of the Bolivian rams, if you get a paired couple. Bolivians will ignore each other for ages, and when they don't ignore each other, it's mostly because the male harasses the female half of the time, if not more.

With the German rams, although they might not swim together hand in hand (or fin in fin...) they do spend more time with each other, nudging, rubbing their bodies, fighting, then not speaking to each other, then making up, the whole lot. This is really why I prefer German rams to Bolivians, their behaviour is just so fascinating. And if you think I'm only trying personify fish, get a couple and see for yourself!

But, after all, I must admit I love both and Bolivians are easier to keep, especially with all the inbreeding going on. If you do decide to get the Germans, my advice to you would be to get some medications for internal parasites and internal bacteria, and treat immediately if the fish stop eating and has white stringy poo. Also, take your time when acclimating them. Two hours is about right.

That's all I can think of at the moment...

I also like Germans better. I don't know why, but the yellowish color of the bolivians strikes me as kinda drab.

I've never kept German but have Bolivian. I too prefer their hardiness and more "natural" look. But I'm sure that the German is a great fish.

"I am a believer in punctuality, though it makes me very lonely" EV Lucas

I would go with Bolivians, I think they're are a much nicer looking fish. Also they have a longer lifespan.

Hi,
I have Bolivian Rams.
I chose them up and above and far over the germans.
I like the personality of these fish, they are friendly,
jovial, and enjoy interacting with their keepers.
They are lovely, and in my opinion, are more beautiful
than their german counterparts.
Color isnt all of what makes a fish beautiful.
An adult male BR has stunning dorsal and tail filaments,
and can display amazing colors.
I have 5 of these fish, 3 females and 2 males, and they
are constantly interacting. Squabbling, shoving, swimming together, flirting, displaying. Awesome, awesome fish.
They are one of my favorite fish of all time.
If I had room, I would get 5 more.
Alpha Male Bolivian Ram


Female Ram w/eggs


[/font][/font]

Come Play Yahtzee With Me!
http://games.atari.com
Http://www.myleague.com/yahtgames

To all that responded,

First of all, thank you for your replies, sneaky_pete this are very nice pictures of your rams.

You made good points of why you prefer one over the other and so far we have a 4 Bol vs. 2 Ger count. This does not mean that I will get the Bolivians, but it makes them more attractive to me as they have been before.

Thank you again,

Ingo

---

Proud Member of the New Jersey Aquatic Gardeners Club

i had this same question not that long ago. well i cam eup with a simple sollution to getting the perfect answer that fit me....both. just get both they are both fairly timid. i see occasional chases but really not that bad. course this is in a 75g tank so if your planning out a smaller tank this might not be such a good idea. mostly depends on floorspace and decor. in most cases both is doable

I love the bolivian ram. They are my favorite community fish, he gets along with everyone in my tank.

My bolivian likes to change colors with the light. In the dark, hes all pretty with all his markings showing. When you turn on the light, all his markings go away, making him seem opalescent. Hes gorgeous and very easy to keep.

The german is very pretty, but ive heard they have to have superb water quality.

I used to work in a pet store and have had german rams. For some reason, german rams are touchy in regards to water parameters. My friend has bolivians in a 75 gal with discus, and they are timid and get along with the rest of the tank. If you dont have perfect parameters or are not too familiar with cichlids, i would do the bolivians. Good luck!

I've got a fever... and the only prescription... is more cowbell!

While bolivians are much hardier to changing water conditions and supposedly hardier to nitrates I haven't had trouble with my german rams once they were acclimated to the tank. I prefer the smaller size and brighter blue colors of my german rams. I like anything blue. Plus I love their personalities. Both the way my pair interact in the 10g while breeding and how the trio in the 55g act. I also find them to be very friendly with me. They are always coming to the front of the tank to watch me and if they think there might be food they dash up to the top and back down and up again.. so on. On days I feed frozen squid I handfeed it to them. They are cautious but will take it directly from my fingers. Overall I'm quite happy I chose german rams and would probably only go with bolivians if I had space to add both or was concerned over water quality.