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Golden/blue rams with cherry barbs
Posted: Sat Aug 02, 2025 2:58 am
by foxhunter
Thinking about adding some Golden Rams to my 30-gallon tank with Cherry Barbs. Anyone got experience mixing these? Worried about aggression or different water needs.
Re: Golden/blue rams with cherry barbs
Posted: Sat Aug 02, 2025 3:16 am
by euter
Rams and Cherry Barbs can work if the tank's big enough. Rams prefer softer water, around 6.0-7.0 pH, while Cherry Barbs are more flexible. You'll need to find a middle ground. Also, make sure there's plenty of hiding spots.
Re: Golden/blue rams with cherry barbs
Posted: Sat Aug 02, 2025 3:56 am
by dunlop
Yep, done it before. Rams can be a bit territorial, but Cherry Barbs are chill. Just keep an eye on the Rams during feeding time. They might try to hog the food.
Re: Golden/blue rams with cherry barbs
Posted: Sat Aug 02, 2025 4:40 am
by polaris
My Rams are pretty peaceful. Maybe it's the tank setup? I've got lots of plants and driftwood. The Cherry Barbs just dart around and don't bother anyone.
Re: Golden/blue rams with cherry barbs
Posted: Sat Aug 02, 2025 5:08 am
by village
euter wrote: ↑Sat Aug 02, 2025 3:16 am
Rams and Cherry Barbs can work if the tank's big enough. Rams prefer softer water, around 6.0-7.0 pH, while Cherry Barbs are more flexible. You'll need to find a middle ground. Also, make sure there's plenty of hiding spots.
Agreed. I've kept both in a 40-gallon with a pH around 6.5. No issues as long as the water's stable.
Re: Golden/blue rams with cherry barbs
Posted: Sat Aug 02, 2025 5:14 am
by zipnex
Rams are sensitive to nitrates, so keep those low. Cherry Barbs are hardy, but Rams will show stress if the water's off. Test regularly and do weekly water changes.
Re: Golden/blue rams with cherry barbs
Posted: Sat Aug 02, 2025 5:27 am
by reeflover
I've got a pair of Golden Rams with a school of Cherry Barbs in a 29-gallon. They've been fine for months. Just make sure the Rams have their own space. They like to claim a corner.
Re: Golden/blue rams with cherry barbs
Posted: Sat Aug 02, 2025 5:42 am
by foxhunter
Thanks for the input, everyone. Gonna test my water and maybe add some more plants before introducing the Rams.
Re: Golden/blue rams with cherry barbs
Posted: Sat Aug 02, 2025 6:41 am
by euter
foxhunter wrote: ↑Sat Aug 02, 2025 5:42 am
Thanks for the input, everyone. Gonna test my water and maybe add some more plants before introducing the Rams.
Smart move. Stability is key with Rams. Let us know how it goes.
Re: Golden/blue rams with cherry barbs
Posted: Sat Aug 02, 2025 7:24 am
by dunlop
Yeah, plants help a ton. I've got Java Fern and Anubias in mine. The Rams love hiding in the leaves, and the Barbs don't mess with 'em.