Difference between Bolivian Rams and German Rams

[870critters]

Hi, I want to know if anyone can tell me what the big differences are between the Bolivian Rams and the German Blue Rams. I have a well planted tank and would like to get a pair or two. Would these two species cross breed (not that I want them to!)? Are they the same sizes? Is one type easier to keep than the other? Is one species more aggressive than the other? Thanks for any information you can supply.

 

[Evan]

They are actually quite different from each other.

Blue rams are smaller, more colorful, more aggressive when spawning, like soft water and it is somewhat hard to find quality stock.

Bolivian rams are larger, very peaceful and don't mind harder water as much.

They will not cross breed. I would say that the bolivian rams are easier to keep because they tend to be hardier.

Both are great little fish.

 

[Mud Pie Mama]

I'll also add that because their native habitats are quite different, they also have a difference in their prefered temperature.

German Blue Rams, Mikrogeophagus ramirezi, are from hot savanna areas in Columbia and Venezuela. Therefore need warmer temps than most community fish: 82 - 84F.

The Bolivian Rams, M. altispinosus, are from further south in South America: yeah, Bolivia and Brazil. They like 76 - 79F.

 

[870critters]

Bolivian vs German Blue Rams

I'll also add that because their native habitats are quite different, they also have a difference in their prefered temperature.

The Bolivian Rams, M. altispinosus, are from further south in South America: yeah, Bolivia and Brazil. They like 76 - 79F.

It sounds like I should stick with the Bolivian for now, although I love the looks of both. I have well water which tends to be very hard, so unless I haul my water from an hour away, it's probably better to keep a specie that is more tolerant. Thanks, your information is very helpful.

 

[Bev N]

Actually German blue rams come from Germany. :wink:

They are a tank raised strain and really are not as picky as the wild rams are supposed to be. I have not found either to be picky one bit about much of anything. Temp, ph, food. Doesn't matter. They eat...they breed!

I gave some of the German blues to my daughter that has some of the nastiest water for fish and they have done very well. She has had them for a year now.

They would be find in a tank at 78. I have them breeding in the grow out tanks that are that temp. I think that getting healthy stock is the key to success with the German Blue rams. If you start with that you should have no problem keeping them in the same conditions you have your bolivians in now.

Bev