Thaisilk Ram

fish description – Thaisilk Ram Cichlid Care Guide ($Mikrogeophagusramirezi$ ‘Thaisilk’ Strain)

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Appearance and Sexual Differences

 

• Short Description: The Thaisilk Ram is immediately identifiable by its intense, full-body iridescent metallic blue or turquoise coloration, often lacking the yellow or black markings found on other Ram strains. The fins may feature striking patterns or elongated filaments.
• Coloration: The body is predominantly covered in a solid, shimmering iridescent blue or turquoise sheen, a result of selective breeding. Males are slightly larger with more extended fin rays. Females are smaller and may show a rounded, reddish/pink belly when in spawning condition.
• Fins: Fins may be clear or carry the same metallic sheen as the body, often with pointed rays in males.
• Behavior: They are peaceful bottom-dwellers, often sifting fine sand for food. They form monogamous pairs and become intensely territorial around their chosen spawning site.

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Tank Requirements and Water Parameters

 

• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters) is the minimum for a pair. 30–40 gallons is better for a community setup, as it aids in maintaining the essential water stability.
• Schooling: Best kept as a mated pair. The fish should be allowed to form a bond naturally. They can be kept in small groups in a large, well-structured tank with plenty of territories.
• Temperature: High Tropical range: 78∘–85∘F (25.5∘–29.5∘C). Consistent, high warmth is essential for their long-term health.
• pH Level: Soft, acidic water is preferred: 5.0 to 7.0. They are notoriously sensitive to nitrates and require pristine water conditions (dGH 3–10). Weekly partial water changes (20-30%) are mandatory.
• Aquascape: A fine, sandy substrate is essential for their natural sifting behavior. Provide a well-planted environment with plenty of hiding caves (driftwood, rocks, clay pots) and flat surfaces for spawning. Filtration should be efficient but must provide gentle water flow. Dim lighting is preferred.

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Diet and Feeding

 

The Thaisilk Ram is an omnivore with a strong preference for high-protein, meaty foods.

• Staple Diet: High-quality sinking micro-pellets or small cichlid granules. They are mid-to-bottom dwellers, so food should not be surface-floating.
• Supplementation: A varied, protein-rich diet is crucial for maintaining color. Offer live or frozen foods such as Bloodworms, Brine Shrimp, Daphnia, and Mysis Shrimp. Supplement occasionally with vegetable matter.
• Schedule: Feed small portions twice daily. Ensure all food is consumed promptly, as Rams are delicate regarding water quality.

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Compatibility

 

• Caution: Highly sensitive and prone to stress from poor water quality or bullying. Avoid aggressive or boisterous fish and known fin-nippers.
• Good Tank Mates: Peaceful, calm, and small South American fish that occupy the mid-to-upper water column. Examples include Cardinal Tetras, Rummy Nose Tetras, Pencilfish, Dwarf Gouramis, and peaceful Corydoras catfish.