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I think your parameters being out of wack tool the rams out. Rams like established tanks so try and only do your water changes and swish your filter pads in old tank water from now on. It's the way I do it and almost everyone here
I would never have thought to do that. Definitely will going forward. Any suggestions on different "smaller" tank mates for rams? I'd like to get some more but there really aren't many smaller fish that are cool looking that wouldn't crowd the tank.