Our Guide To Keeping Discus Fish

1. About Fish Species:

   • Scientific name: Symphysodon aequifasciatus
   • Common name: Discus Fish
   • Family: Cichlidae
   • Origin: Amazon River Basin in South America
   • Adult length: 20 cm
   • Lifespan: 10 to 15 years

2. Tank Setup:

   • Discus Fish prefer a spacious tank with plenty of swimming space. A minimum tank size of 200L is recommended for a small school of these fish.
   • Provide ample hiding places and areas with dense vegetation to mimic their natural habitat. They appreciate plants like Amazon Sword, Java Moss, and driftwood for shelter.

3. Water Parameters:

   • Discus Fish thrive in soft, acidic to slightly alkaline water conditions with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5.
   • Keep the water temperature between 27 to 30°C (80 to 86°F).

4. Filtration and Water Flow:

   • A moderate water flow is suitable for these fish, so choose a filter that provides gentle to moderate flow.

5. Diet:

   • Discus Fish are omnivores and will accept a variety of foods. Offer them a balanced diet consisting of high-quality flake or pellet food as a staple.
   • Supplement their diet with live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and beef heart mix to provide essential nutrients and mimic their natural diet.

6. Tank mates:

   • Discus Fish are peaceful but can be territorial during breeding. They are best kept in a species-only tank or with peaceful tank mates like cardinal tetras, rummy nose tetras, and dwarf corydoras.

7. Behavior and Compatibility:

   • Discus Fish are known for their social behavior and form strong bonds with their tank mates.
   • They are sensitive to water conditions and stress, so regular water changes and a stable environment are essential for their well-being.