Our Guide To Keeping Red Marlboro Discus

1. About Fish Species:

   • Scientific name: Symphysodon aequifasciatus (Red Marlboro variant)
   • Common name: Red Marlboro Discus
   • Family: Cichlidae
   • Origin: Amazon River Basin, selectively bred in captivity
   • Adult length: 15–20 cm
   • Lifespan: 10 to 15 years
   • Diet: Omnivore
   • Care Level: Advanced
   • Temperament: Peaceful but can be territorial

2. Tank Setup:

   • Red Marlboro Discus need a spacious aquarium of at least 250L to accommodate a group comfortably.
   • They thrive in a calm, dimly lit environment with vertical decorations like driftwood, smooth rocks, and tall aquatic plants such as Amazon Swords and Vallisneria.

3. Water Parameters:

   • They prefer soft, slightly acidic water with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
   • Maintain a stable temperature between 28 to 30°C (82 to 86°F) to support their health and colouration.

4. Filtration and Water Flow:

   • Use a high-quality filtration system that provides crystal-clear water with minimal flow. Avoid strong currents, as discus prefer gentle movement.

5. Diet:

   • Feed a varied diet including discus-specific pellets, high-quality flakes, and protein-rich frozen foods like beef heart, brine shrimp, and bloodworms.
   • Multiple small feedings throughout the day help maintain optimal health and vibrant red coloration.

6. Tank mates:

   • Keep Red Marlboro Discus in groups of 5 or more for social stability and reduced stress.
   • Ideal tank mates include peaceful, slow-moving species such as cardinal tetras, rummy nose tetras, corydoras catfish, and dwarf plecos that tolerate warm water.

7. Behavior and Compatibility:

   • These discus are calm and elegant swimmers that form a gentle social hierarchy.
   • They thrive in serene tanks with minimal disturbance and show their best behaviour and coloration when kept in stable, well-maintained conditions.