Saltwater Aquarist

Discus

(Symphysodon sp)

Discus (Symphysodon sp) in a freshwater aquarium

Species Description…

Scientific Name: Symphysodon sp
Common Name: Discus
Species Group: Cichlid
Tank Type:
Care Level:
Temperament:
Diet Type: Omnivore
Role in Aquarium: Showpiece Fish
Max Fish Length: 6 (inches)
Min Aquarium Size: 67 (gallons)
Native Range: Amazon basin: the Rio Solimões and main Amazon, from the Rio Putumayo eastward, in slow tributaries and forest pools.
Min Temperature: 79°F
Max Temperature: 86°F
Min pH: 5
Max pH: 7
Min GH: 0 dGH
Max GH: 5 dGH
Min Group Size:
Breeding:
Lifespan: years

Overview

  • The Discus (Symphysodon aequifasciatus and related Symphysodon species) is a disc-shaped Amazon cichlid prized for its color.
  • Wild fish live in slow tributaries and forest pools along the Rio Solimões and Amazon.
  • Grows to about 6 in (15 cm) long and nearly as tall.
  • Most fish sold are captive-bred color strains. [UNVERIFIED] Discus taxonomy is still debated.

Feeding

  • Wild fish eat mainly zooplankton, insects and small invertebrates.
  • [UNVERIFIED] Offer quality discus granules, frozen bloodworm and brine shrimp.

Habitat

  • A tank of about 48 × 18 × 18 in (120 × 45 × 45 cm), about 67 gallons (255 liters), for a few juveniles or a breeding pair.
  • Heavily planted with plenty of cover.
  • Warm, soft, acidic water: 79–86°F (26–30°C), pH 5.0–7.0, GH 0–5.

Fish Care

  • Shy and skittish, so give plenty of cover.
  • [UNVERIFIED] Needs very clean water. Do frequent water changes.

Compatibility

  • [UNVERIFIED] Keep with calm fish that tolerate high temperatures and won’t outcompete discus for food.

Aquarium Behavior

  • Lives in groups in sheltered areas in the wild.
  • [UNVERIFIED] Easily stressed by boisterous tankmates.

Breeding

  • [UNVERIFIED] Pairs spawn on vertical surfaces. Both parents guard the eggs, and fry feed on mucus from the parents’ skin at first.