Male bullying female German Ram

[Harry Muscle]

I have a female German Ram that is being bullied by the male in my tank (55G tank). Obvioulsy he doesn't like her and the bullying is starting to affect her it seems (she get's chased away from food, etc. so she's getting skinny). I'm trying to explore my options as to how I can remedy the situation for good. Would getting a second female help or make things worse? Other than getting rid of her and getting another female (which is my last resort option), is there anything I could try?

Thanks,
Harry

P.S. What about getting a second male to distract the original male?

 

[Mike Wise]

Rams form pair bonds - at least temporarily - when breeding. Not every male & female will form such a bond. Compared to some other cichlids, Rams are not especially picky about their mates. Your male seems to want to breed, but your female is not yet ready. I suggest that you remove the female, and fatten her up with good quality frozen & live foods. Once her belly is very large & full, reintroduce her to the male and see what happens. If he still does not accept her, then you will need another female.