How to Identify Electric Blue Ram Cichlid

To identify Electric Blue Ram Cichlid (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

The Electric Blue Ram is characterized by an intense, iridescent electric blue coloration that covers the majority of its body, including the head, flanks, and fins. Unlike the wild type, the yellow and red pigments are often greatly reduced or absent, replaced by this dominant blue. Some individuals may retain a faint black vertical bar through the eye and a black spot on the flank, though these are often obscured by the blue. Fins are typically blue, sometimes with red or orange edging on the dorsal and caudal fins, and often with iridescent blue spots on the caudal fin.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Intense, uniform electric blue coloration across the body and fins., Relatively small, compact body with a high-backed profile., Often possess a black spot on the flank, though it can be obscured by the blue., Males are typically larger, have more elongated dorsal and anal fins, and often a more pointed dorsal fin ray. Females are smaller, rounder, and may have a reddish belly, especially when gravid.

Dorsal fin

Single, long dorsal fin extending almost the length of the back, often with elongated rays in males. Typically blue with potential red/orange edging.

Tail fin

Rounded to slightly truncate caudal fin, typically blue with iridescent spots.

Pectoral fin

Small, clear to bluish pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are often elongated and filamentous, typically blue.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Coloration

   The most striking feature is the uniform, intense electric blue covering the entire body, distinguishing it from the more variegated wild-type Ram Cichlid.

2. 2

   Size and Shape

   Small, compact cichlid, typically reaching 5-7 cm (2-2.8 inches) in length, with a somewhat high-backed body and pointed snout.

3. 3

   Fin Morphology

   Males often have more elongated dorsal and anal fin rays, and the first few rays of the dorsal fin may be extended into a filament.

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