Neon Blue / Orange Head Ram – Mikrogeophagus ramirezi

The Neon Blue / Orange Head Ram (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi) is a dazzling variant of the popular Ram Cichlid, celebrated for its electric blue body and vivid orange head. This eye-catching dwarf cichlid brings a splash of color and personality to peaceful community tanks.

Description:

Common Name: Neon Blue / Orange Head Ram

Scientific Name: Mikrogeophagus ramirezi

Family: Cichlidae

Size: 2-2.5 inches (5-6.5 cm)

Temperament: Peaceful, but may become territorial when breeding.

Difficulty: Moderate

Native Region:

Originally from the Orinoco River basin in Venezuela and Colombia, where they inhabit warm, slow-moving waters with dense vegetation.

Aquarium Setup:

Tank Size: Minimum of 20 gallons

Temperature: 78-85F (25-29C)

pH: 6.0-7.5

Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water

Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel with plenty of plants, driftwood, and hiding places.

Additional Tips:

Social Behavior: Best kept in pairs or small groups with adequate territory space.

Compatibility: Ideal for peaceful community tanks with small tetras, corydoras, and rasboras.

Diet: Omnivorous; thrives on high-quality micro pellets, flakes, and supplemental feedings of frozen or live brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia.