Description
Scientific Name: Symphysodon (various species and hybrids) Common Name: Discus, Pompadour Fish Origin: South America (Amazon River Basin)
Physical Characteristics The fish in your image represent several popular man-made color strains (such as Pigeon Blood and Turquoise).
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Body Shape: They have a laterally compressed body that is almost perfectly round. This shape allows them to navigate through dense tree roots in the wild.
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Coloration: Selective breeding has created incredible varieties.
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Turquoise: Blue bodies with red scribbles (seen in your photo).
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Pigeon Blood: Cream or orange bodies with red mazes or spots.
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Solid Colors: Like the Blue Diamond or Solid Red.
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Size: They are large cichlids, growing to a diameter of 6 to 8 inches (15–20 cm).
Behavior and Temperament
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Schooling: Discus are highly social. They must be kept in groups of 5 or more. If kept alone or in pairs (unless breeding), they become shy, stressed, and dark in color.
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Temperament: They are very peaceful, slow-moving fish. They should not be kept with aggressive or hyper-active fish that will out-compete them for food. Good tank mates include Rummy Nose Tetras, Cardinal Tetras, and Corydoras.
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Parental Care: Discus are famous parents. The babies (fry) actually feed off a special mucus secreted from the parents’ skin for the first few weeks of life.
Care and Habitat
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The “Expert” Fish: Discus are not for beginners. They require immaculate water quality. Frequent water changes are necessary to keep nitrates low.
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Temperature: They require much warmer water than most tropical fish. They thrive between 82°F and 86°F (28°C–30°C).
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Diet: They are slow, picky eaters. They need high-protein foods like beef heart mix, frozen bloodworms, and high-quality pellets.
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