Can Black Skirt Tetra live with German Blue Ram?
Case-by-case. Watch group sizes, tank size, and feeding zones.
Why Black Skirt Tetra and German Blue Ram Don't Make an Easy Pair
They can coexist, but you need to manage the setup carefully. The temperature margin is tight — only 1°F of safe overlap, which leaves little room for thermostat drift.
Black Skirt Tetra
Gymnocorymbus ternetzi
| Adult Size: | 2.5" |
| Temperament: | semi-aggressive |
| Min Tank: | 15 gal |
| Temperature: | 68-79°F |
| pH Range: | 6.0-7.5 |
German Blue Ram
Mikrogeophagus ramirezi
| Adult Size: | 2.5" |
| Temperament: | peaceful |
| Min Tank: | 20 gal |
| Temperature: | 78-86°F |
| pH Range: | 5.0-7.0 |
Water Parameter Overlap
| Parameter | Black Skirt Tetra | German Blue Ram | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 68-79°F | 78-86°F | 1°F ✓ |
| pH | 6.0-7.5 | 5.0-7.0 | 1.0 ✓ |
Compatibility Breakdown
Temperament Match: semi-aggressive + peaceful. Semi-aggressive → watch territory and feeding.
Score: 50.0/100 (GOOD ≥80, CAUTION ≥50, RISKY <50).
🔧 Tank Setup Requirements (for Both)
- Minimum tank: 20 gallons — sized for the larger fish in the pair.
- Temperature: keep it between 78°F and 79°F.
- pH: maintain 6.0 – 7.0.
- Hiding spots: essential for Black Skirt Tetra — caves, plants, or driftwood to retreat when feeling stressed.
- Water changes: 25% weekly minimum. Two species mean double the bioload.
🔧 Tank Stocking Calculator
Enter tank size to calculate safe stocking levels:
Recommended Equipment
Based on tank size 20+ gallons:
Premium small pellet for delicate dwarf cichlids
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Accuracy note: This tool uses expert rules + FishBase.org data. Individual fish behavior varies — a semi-aggressive individual Black Skirt Tetra may act differently from its species average. Always observe, quarantine new arrivals for 2-4 weeks, and avoid overcrowding. If a pairing says CAUTION, start with a smaller group and a lid.