Can German Blue Ram Live With Skunk Cleaner Shrimp?
Incompatible pH. German Blue Ram needs 5.5–7.0, Skunk Cleaner Shrimp needs 8.1–8.4.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | German Blue Ram | Skunk Cleaner Shrimp | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 78–86°F | 75–82°F | 78–82°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 5.5–7 | 8.1–8.4 | No overlap ✗ |
| Temperament | peaceful | peaceful | Both peaceful ✓ |
| Max Size | 3" | 3" | Similar ✓ |
| Min Tank Size | 20 gal | 20 gal | 20 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Omnivore | Omnivore | — |
| Care Level | intermediate | beginner | — |
Species Profiles
German Blue Ram
Mikrogeophagus ramirezi
German blue rams are one of the most beautiful dwarf cichlids, with iridescent blue and gold coloration, a distinctive black spot, and red-highlighted fins. Despite being cichlids, they are remarkably peaceful and make excellent centerpiece fish for planted community tanks. They do require warm, soft water and are more sensitive than typical community fish.
Full care guide →Skunk Cleaner Shrimp
Lysmata amboinensis
Skunk cleaner shrimp are one of the most useful invertebrates in reef tanks. They operate a 'cleaning station' where fish line up to have parasites, dead skin, and debris removed from their bodies and gills. This natural cleaning service helps keep fish healthy and disease-free. They are also strikingly beautiful with their red-and-white striped body and long white antennae.
Full care guide →