Discus (Symphysodon aequifasciatus)

Fish in the family Cichlidae. Hard care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameSymphysodon aequifasciatus

FamilyCichlidae

Also known asBlue Discus, Brown Discus, Common Discus, Blue Diamond, Pigeon Blood, Red Turquoise, Snakeskin, Checkerboard Discus

Care levelHard

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentPeaceful

Dietomnivore

Adult size8 in

Minimum tank size55 gallons

Water parametersTemp 82-86°F, pH 5.5-7.0, GH 1-8 dGH

Appearance

Round, laterally compressed disc-shaped body. Countless captive strains: blue diamond (solid metallic blue), pigeon blood (white/red with black peppering), red turquoise, snakeskin (fine striping), checkerboard, and more.

Difficulty and care for the Discus

Hard

Origin and habitat

Amazon Basin, South America (captive-bred strains worldwide)

Keeper notes

Peaceful but shy shoaling fish that establishes a pecking order; keep 6+ to spread aggression and reduce bullying of weaker individuals. Will eat dwarf shrimp. Best in a species tank or with calm, warm-water tankmates (e.g. cardinal tetras, sterbai cory); avoid boisterous or fast feeders that outcompete them.

Log Discus in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Discus alongside everything else in your reef.

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