German Blue Balloon Ramirezi (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi var. Balloon)

The German Blue Balloon Ramirezi is a stunning, selectively bred variant of the popular German Blue Ram. Featuring a compact, rounded body, brilliant blue iridescence, vibrant yellow and gold tones, and striking red eyes, this peaceful dwarf cichlid is a true centerpiece for planted aquariums. Despite its bold appearance, the German Blue Balloon Ramirezi has a gentle temperament and thrives in well-maintained community tanks with other peaceful fish. Its colorful display and fascinating personality make it a favorite among freshwater aquarists.

What We Like About This Fish
Brilliant blue iridescence with vibrant yellow and gold coloration
Unique rounded “balloon” body shape
Peaceful dwarf cichlid suitable for community aquariums
Excellent centerpiece fish for planted tanks
Intelligent with interesting social and breeding behavior
Recommended Tank Parameters
Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons (75 liters)
Temperature: 26–30°C (79–86°F)
pH: 5.5–7.2
KH: 1–6 dKH
Water Flow: Gentle

A heavily planted aquarium with driftwood, rocks, caves, and excellent water quality will help this species display its best coloration and natural behavior.

Care Guidelines

Diet:
Omnivorous. Feed a varied diet of high-quality micro pellets, flakes, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and other protein-rich foods.

Social Behavior:
Peaceful. Can be kept as a bonded pair or in a peaceful community aquarium with non-aggressive fish. May become territorial during breeding.

Origin:
Tank-bred selectively bred variety of the German Blue Ram, originally native to the Orinoco River Basin in Venezuela and Colombia.

Average Adult Size:
5–6 cm (2–2.5 inches)

Average Purchase Size:
3–4 cm (1.2–1.6 inches)

Shrimp Safe:
Generally NO. Adult shrimp may sometimes be tolerated in heavily planted aquariums, but shrimplets and small shrimp are likely to be hunted.