Heckel Discus (Symphysodon discus)

Fish in the family Cichlidae. Hard care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameSymphysodon discus

FamilyCichlidae

Also known asRed Discus, Heckel Blue Discus

Care levelHard

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentPeaceful

Dietomnivore

Adult size8 in

Minimum tank size55 gallons

Water parametersTemp 82-88°F, pH 4.5-6.5, GH 1-4 dGH

Appearance

Disc-shaped body distinguished by a prominent dark fifth vertical bar through the middle ('Heckel bar'); base coloration brownish to blue with turquoise striping on the head and fins.

Difficulty and care for the Heckel Discus

Hard

Origin and habitat

Rio Negro and Amazon blackwater, Brazil

Keeper notes

Peaceful shoaling discus; keep in groups of 6+. Mostly wild-caught and even more demanding than common discus. Will eat shrimp. Pair only with calm warm-water, soft-water tankmates.

Log Heckel 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 Heckel Discus alongside everything else in your reef.

Download Reef Trak See the full app