Scientific Name for Rams?

[jaysono]

Hey guys and gals...

I've taken a little interest in the discussion of Rams lately here, but am having a hard time searching websites for actual scientific names and characteristics. I really interested in the Blue Ram.

Is it considered a Chiclid? My lfs guy said it would be okay in my freshwater tank along with my danio's and Bleeding Hearts, but I'm not 100% sure myself. I like to read up on them before I purchase.

Thanks.

 

[pkremer]

If you mean the German Blue Ram (Microgeophagus ramirezi), then there you go.

Try this site, I love it for doing a little light research.
http://www.liveaquaria.com/

Also, here is the page for the German Blue Ram:
http://www.liveaquaria.com/product/prod_Display.cfm?siteid=21&pCatId=1084

It says it is a peaceful cichlid that will work with tetras.

Hope that helps,
Paul

 

[jaysono]

Thanks, but no it was definetly not the German Blue Ram. It was smaller and more or less blue and black. It was called something like Blue Eye Ram, and it's fins were not as ornate as the German.

 

[pkremer]

Ooops, accidently pressed back and did a repost.

Paul

 

[savga]

There are what are called Bolivian Rams (microgeophagus altispinosa). They are not quite as colorful as german rams but are said to be much more hardy and less inbred. I believe they get a little larger than german rams though. The fish for sale in stores are usually juveniles.

 

[AtodaJ]

You could just have seen a juvenile Blue Ram or one that has an "odd" coloration.

As you can tell from these 2 links... the color of this fish can vary quite a bit:

http://www.aquahobby.com/gallery/gram.html

http://www.liveaquaria.com/product/prod_Display.cfm?siteid=21&pCatId=1084

I'd love to see a picture if you could get one and put it up.