Bolivian Vs German Rams: Key Differences Explained

Bolivian Rams and German Rams are both species of freshwater cichlid fish. They are similar in appearance but differ in several ways. Bolivian Rams are larger, more peaceful, and less susceptible to disease than German Rams. They are also hardier, lower maintenance, calmer, and easier to breed in captivity. On the other hand, German Rams are more colourful, more active, and more sensitive to changes in water conditions. They are harder to breed, pickier eaters, and more prone to diseases such as skin flukes and ich.

Size

Bolivian Rams are larger than German Rams. Male Bolivian Rams can grow to between 3.5 and 4 inches in length, while female Bolivian Rams tend not to exceed 3 inches. In comparison, male German Rams can grow to 2.5 inches, and females are smaller still.

The size of the tank required depends on the size of the fish, so the larger Bolivian Rams require a larger tank. A 30-gallon tank is recommended for a single Bolivian Ram, with an additional 10 gallons required for each additional fish. A 20-gallon tank is the minimum for a single German Ram, with an additional 10 gallons needed for each extra fish.

The size of the fish also dictates the size of their tank mates. Bolivian Rams are best kept with dwarf gouramis, tiger barbs, guppies, rummy nose, and silver dollars. German Rams are smaller and more peaceful, so they can be kept with discus, dwarf gourami, clown loaches, and Corydoras.

Temperament

Bolivian Rams are peaceful, calm, and shy, and are known to be the most peaceful of the cichlid family. They are not aggressive, except during the breeding season, when they dislike other fish coming too close to their breeding area. They are also very protective of their spawn.

German Blue Rams are also peaceful, but may show aggression if the tank is too small or they are breeding. They are more active and vibrant in colour than their Bolivian counterparts.

Both types of Rams are suitable for community tanks with other peaceful fish. However, it is important to ensure that the tankmates are not aggressive or fin-nipping.

Tank setup

When it comes to tank setup, there are several differences between Bolivian Rams and German Blue Rams. Firstly, in terms of size, Bolivian Rams are larger and require a bigger tank. A single Bolivian Ram needs a minimum tank size of 20 gallons, with an additional 10 gallons for each extra fish. In contrast, a pair of German Blue Rams can be kept in a 20-gallon aquarium, but more fish will require a larger tank.

Secondly, the water conditions differ between the two species. Bolivian Rams are hardier and can tolerate a wider range of water conditions than German Blue Rams. They prefer a temperature range of 73-78°F and a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. German Blue Rams, on the other hand, require warmer water temperatures of 78-83°F and a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. They are highly sensitive to changes in water conditions and require stable parameters.

Thirdly, both species require a tank setup that replicates their natural habitat. Bolivian Rams originate from the colder areas of the Amazon River and prefer a sandy substrate with driftwood, rocks, and plants for hiding places. German Blue Rams, on the other hand, are native to the shallow waters of the Orinoco River in Venezuela and prefer a sandy substrate with rich vegetation. They are more active swimmers and require open space, along with hiding places.

Finally, both species are peaceful and can be kept with gentle tank mates. However, they should not be housed with aggressive or fin-nipping fish. Bolivian Rams are compatible with dwarf gouramis, tiger barbs, guppies, and silver dollars. German Blue Rams can be kept with cory catfish, dwarf gouramis, discus fish, and neon tetras.

Breeding

When it comes to breeding, Bolivian Rams are considered easier to breed in captivity than German Blue Rams. To breed both types of Rams, you should start with a group of 4 to 6 juveniles and let them grow up together. Once they reach sexual maturity, they will naturally pair off.

For German Blue Rams, increase the tank temperature to 82 degrees Fahrenheit and offer protein-rich foods. For Bolivian Rams, a tank temperature of 78 degrees Fahrenheit is recommended, along with high-protein foods.

Both types of Rams can be kept with their offspring, as they provide bi-parental brood care and work together to guard the eggs. Under the right conditions, the eggs will hatch within 2 days, and the offspring will become free-swimming in about 5 days. At around 2 months old, the fry can be fed standard dry food, but until then, baby brine shrimp is recommended.

While it is generally not recommended to keep Bolivian Rams and German Blue Rams in the same tank due to their different water parameter requirements, some sources mention that it is possible to breed them together in a large enough tank. However, it is important to note that their breeding requirements, such as temperature, differ, and compromises would need to be made.

Disease susceptibility

German blue rams are more susceptible to disease than their Bolivian counterparts. They are sensitive to changes in tank conditions, making them vulnerable to common parasitic infections such as skin flukes and 'ich' (white spot disease). German blue rams may also experience fish tuberculosis, a rare but incurable disease that leads to drooping eyes, ulcers, and weight loss.

In contrast, Bolivian rams are hardier and less susceptible to disease. While they are still susceptible to parasitic infections, particularly 'ich', they are generally more resistant. To treat 'ich', the temperature of the tank can be raised, and the infected fish can be treated with salt (1 tablespoon per 5 gallons of water) or a copper-based medication.

It is important to note that both types of rams require regular water condition testing and weekly partial water changes to maintain their health.

Frequently asked questions