Electric Blue Ram Care Guide
The Electric Blue Ram (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi "Electric Blue") is a vibrant and peaceful freshwater cichlid popular among UK aquarists. Known for its intense electric-blue coloration and compact size, it's a favourite for planted and community aquariums.
In this guide, you'll learn everything you need to know about Electric Blue Ram care, including tank size, water conditions, compatibility, feeding, and typical UK prices - plus how to buy or sell them locally.
Quick facts about Electric Blue Rams
Electric Blue Rams are a selectively bred colour variant of the German Blue Ram. They are prized for their bright metallic blue colouration and peaceful temperament compared to many cichlids.
They are sensitive fish that require stable, warm water conditions.
Mikrogeophagus ramirezi ("Electric Blue" variant)
5-7 cm
South America (original species)
75L (20gal)
2-4 years
Peaceful to semi-aggressive during breeding
27-31°C
Omnivore (pellets, frozen, live foods)
5.5-7.0
£10-£30 per fish
How Many Electric Blue Rams Should You Keep?
Electric Blue Rams are best kept as pairs or singly in community aquariums.
- A bonded pair works best in species-focused setups
- Single fish work well in peaceful communities
- Provide territories and hiding spaces for pairs
Keeping multiple males together in smaller tanks can lead to:
- Territorial aggression
- Stress and chasing
- Competition for space
They are generally peaceful outside breeding periods.
Ideal Tank Conditions for Electric Blue Rams
Providing the right environment is essential for their health and colouration.
- Tank Setup: Warm planted aquarium with calm areas
- Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel
- Plants & Decor: Driftwood, caves, leaf litter, and dense planting
- Water Conditions: Soft, warm, stable water is critical
- Filtration & Flow: Gentle filtration with excellent water quality
- Lighting: Moderate lighting
Stable temperature and cleanliness are especially important.
Compatibility with Other Fish
Electric Blue Rams are peaceful and suitable for carefully planned community aquariums.
- Good Tankmates: cardinal tetras, rummy-nose tetras, corydoras catfish, pencilfish, and peaceful gouramis
- Avoid: aggressive fish, fin-nippers, and large cichlids
Tankmates must tolerate the warm temperatures they require.
Are Electric Blue Rams Easy to Care For?
Electric Blue Rams are moderately difficult to care for and better suited to aquarists with some experience.
They require:
- Excellent water quality
- Warm stable temperatures
- Careful acclimation
- Peaceful tankmates
They are more sensitive than many beginner tropical fish.
Electric Blue Ram Price in the UK
In the UK, Electric Blue Rams typically cost between £10-£30 per fish.
Prices vary depending on:
- Colour quality
- Size and age
- Availability
- Shop vs hobbyist breeders
Healthy, brightly coloured specimens usually command higher prices.
Where to Buy Electric Blue Rams in the UK
Electric Blue Rams are widely available in UK aquarium shops and from specialist breeders.
Sourcing fish locally can:
- Reduce transport stress
- Allow you to inspect health and colouration
- Offer better value
TankMate UK helps connect fishkeepers who want to buy, sell, or rehome fish safely - without shipping.
Find Electric Blue Rams for sale near you or list your own using TankMate UK.
Can You Sell Electric Blue Rams?
Yes - Electric Blue Rams are commonly bred and sold by hobbyists.
Selling locally is often the best option, as it:
- Minimises stress for the fish
- Avoids the risks of shipping
- Connects you with responsible aquarists
TankMate UK allows you to list fish quickly and find local buyers.
Feeding Electric Blue Rams
Electric Blue Rams are omnivorous and require a high-quality diet.
Key Tips
- Feed quality micro pellets or granules
- Supplement with frozen foods such as bloodworms and brine shrimp
- Feed small portions 1-2 times daily
- Provide a varied diet to maintain colour and health
They can be fussy feeders when stressed.
Common Problems with Electric Blue Rams
Stress and faded colours, often caused by:
- Poor water quality
- Incorrect temperatures
- Aggressive tankmates
Sensitivity to poor conditions, linked to:
- Unstable aquariums
- Sudden parameter changes
Poor appetite, caused by:
- Stress during acclimation
- Low water temperatures
Why Electric Blue Rams Are So Popular
- Brilliant electric-blue coloration
- Peaceful and community-friendly
Ideal for planted aquariums
- Compact size
- Interesting cichlid behaviour
When kept correctly, Electric Blue Rams become stunning focal fish in peaceful tropical aquariums.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, they are generally peaceful except during breeding.
They require stable warm water and good maintenance, making them better for experienced beginners or intermediate aquarists.
Yes, with peaceful fish that tolerate warm temperatures.
At least 75 litres, with planted areas and stable warm water.
Looking to Buy or Sell Electric Blue Rams Locally?
TankMate UK connects fishkeepers who want to buy, sell, or rehome fish safely within their local area.
Whether you're adding colourful dwarf cichlids to your aquarium or passing fish on to a new home, you can:
- Browse fish available near you
- List your own fish in minutes
- Avoid the risks of shipping
Explore local listings with TankMate UK and find the right fish for your aquarium.