Rams

Question
QUESTION: David,
  I have had many freshwater aquariums, but this is my first time with cichlids and rams specifically. My current interest is in Bolivian Rams, Gold Rams, and German Blue Rams. I would like to know everything from the equipment needed to how to properly care for them. I am studying Fisheries Science here at Virginia Tech, but I can't say that these fish are incorporated into this major. I understand that you may not be able to fit everything in a reply so if you think of anything, just send me an e-mail at dlhag10@vt.edu. Thanks

ANSWER: Hi Don:  what size tank?  what are the water chemistry results?  what kind of filtration are you using?  what is the tank water temperature???? dave

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QUESTION: Dave,

My dream setup will consist of a GBR pair in a planted 20 gallon tank (with some panda corys): emperor 280 filter, temperature at about 79/80F. What substrate do you recommend? I was thiking either sand or something just slightly bigger?
  I've heard that the GBRs can be very difficult to care for because they require near-perfect water conditions with no nitrates/trites or ammonia, but also need a very "established" tank. Is this true, and if so, what precautions can I take to make sure they have the best conditions possible before I put them in the tank? The water here is pretty soft/med. hard and the plantings should drop the pH to roughly 6.6-7. What species of plants do you use for South American dwarf cichlids?
  And my big question is where can I find these fish? I wanted to try out my luck with one in my 12 gallon community tank with a pair of sailfin mollies and a panda cory. If it's not a complete failure, maybe I can move forward with the plan. I put an order in at my LFS but from what I've heard I'll most likely get an Asian farm-raised fish that's been living in hormone water. Do you know of any reputable ram breeders (any of the three species) in Virginia? If it's easier I might just start with a hardier Bolivian Ram. Let me know what you think. Thanks for all your help.

Don

Answer
Most true fish stores carry GBR's... I have never seen them at the local walmart or petco... GBR's like discus need a tank that is established... I recommend at least one month and preferably 3 months or longer before putting either in.  I would use a fine gravel or sand for them... silica sand works fine.  Try the lfs see if they have one... dave