Discus
Symphysodon aequifasciatus · Cichlidae
Also known as Pompadour fish
Advanced
The showpiece cichlid: needs very warm, spotless, soft water and a group of six or more.
In short: A discus needs at least 250 L (66 US gal), water at 28–31 °C (82–88 °F) and pH 5.5–7. It is peaceful, best kept in groups of 6 or more, and rated advanced to keep.
Updated
- Minimum tank
- 250 L (66 US gal)
- Temperature
- 28–31 °C (82–88 °F)
- pH
- 5.5–7
- Adult size
- 18 cm (7.1 in)
- Group size
- 6+
Care requirements
- Minimum tank volume
- 250 L (66 US gal)
- Temperature
- 28–31 °C (82–88 °F)
- pH
- 5.5–7
- Hardness
- 1–8 dGH
- Lifespan
- 10–15 years
- Diet
- Carnivore-leaning omnivore — beef heart mixes, frozen bloodworm, quality granules.
- Care level
- Advanced
Origin & habitat
- Native region
- Central Amazon floodplain
- Water type
- Freshwater
- Biotope
- Warm blackwater among submerged branches
- Natural conditions
- Very warm, very soft, acidic, stable water.
Behaviour & stocking
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Minimum group
- 6 fish
- Swims
- Mid-water
- Good tank mates
- Cardinal tetraSterbai corydorasRummynose tetra
- Avoid
- Panda corydoras (too warm)BarbsAggressive cichlids
Breeding & difficulty
- Breeding difficulty
- Advanced
- Sexing
- Very difficult; males have thicker lips and steeper foreheads.
- Notes
- Pairs lay on cones and feed fry on body slime; needs RO water and daily changes.
- Common ailments
- HexamitaGill flukesDiscus plagueBacterial infections
Will it fit your tank?
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