concerns with my german blue ram

[terrakaos]

I'm hoping this is the right thread for this...

So, I checked on my female GB this morning and she's got a few issues - one ick spot on a fin and what looks like an egg on her vent area. There are also a few missing scales on her dorsal side, just behind her top fin. I'm pretty sure she's super stressed out.

Could this be related to spawning? I'm getting a bit worried since she's had this thing hanging out all day. Anyone else seen this before? She was perfectly fine last night at 11 PM, but by 9 AM this morning, all this was going on... and it's still the same.

http/www.flickr.com/photos/51438603@N00/6630651389/

[rivora2]

You'd probably get more help if you post this in the New world Cichlids or Emergency sections - those tend to get more views.

[oakleyride]

Hey, got some good news for you - that's not an egg, it's her breeding tube. The missing scales and the "ick spot" are likely just a nip from her mate, all part of the mate selection process. Even though they're generally peaceful, they're still cichlids and can get a bit rough with each other.

[coralmist]

Considering my female GB's recent issues, I'm wondering about tankmates. What other peaceful fish can I keep with my butterfly ram that won't stress her out further?

[northridge]

You can keep a variety of fish with your butterfly ram. Some good tankmates include Silver Dollar, Discus, and Dwarf Gourami. I've also had success with Dwarf Rainbowfish like the Neon, as well as Synodontis catfish and Plecostomus. Tetras are another great option, such as the Black Phantom Tetra, Glowlight Tetra, Cardinal Tetra, and the Neon Tetra. Just be aware that Angelfish can work out, but you need to keep a close eye on them.

[floriks]

You're pretty limited with a GBR, since they're quite particular about their water temp - 82 degrees is their sweet spot, but most common fish prefer it closer to 77. What's the size of your tank, by the way?

[Duskstar]

I totally agree with you, rams aren't exactly the easiest fish to keep in a community tank. They need warmer temperatures, around 82 degrees, to really thrive and show off their colours. Most other fish prefer it cooler, around 77 degrees, so you're quite limited in your options.

To keep them happy and healthy, you also need to consider the pH and water hardness. They prefer soft water and a lower pH, which can be a challenge to replicate in a community tank.

There are some nice fish you can keep with them, but it really depends on the size of your tank. What's the tank size, by the way?

[coralmist]

My tank's 60 litres, I've taken in this butterfly ram from a friend who's switched to marine and so far, she seems happy.