Blue Diamond Discus Care Guide
Blue Diamond Discus is a selectively bred solid-blue strain of Symphysodon, a demanding warm-water cichlid kept in groups.
Overview
The Blue Diamond Discus is a selectively bred, solid-blue strain of discus, derived from the cichlid genus Symphysodon. Discus colour morphs such as turquoise, cobalt and solid forms are developed by aquarists from wild green, blue and brown discus and do not occur in nature. Being captive-bred, such strains are generally more adaptable to harder water than wild fish.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Symphysodon
- Scientific name: Symphysodon sp. "Blue Diamond"
Habitat
Wild discus of the genus Symphysodon are native to the Amazon River basin in Brazil, occupying lentic habitats such as floodplains and flooded forests rather than open river channels. They are found in blackwater, clearwater and whitewater systems and shelter in sheltered, structure-rich areas around tree roots.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 250 L (about 66 gal)
- Temperature: 28-31 °C (82-88 °F)
- pH: 5.5-7.5
- GH: 2-10 °dGH
- Group size: at least 5 individuals
- Lifespan: 8-12 years
Discus require warm, stable water and tall tanks, as the fish grow about as tall as they are long.
Diet
Discus are omnivores. Wild fish feed on zooplankton, insects and other small invertebrates. In the aquarium they take a varied diet of invertebrate foods such as bloodworm and brine shrimp, supplemented with vegetable matter.
Compatibility
Discus are highly gregarious cichlids and, uniquely among American cichlids, occur in groups that may number many dozens of individuals. They are shy and easily startled, so they should be kept in groups of at least five and given plenty of cover and calm, peaceful tankmates.
Breeding
Discus are substrate spawners with intensive biparental care. Both parents guard the eggs and fry, and the larvae feed for their first weeks on a skin secretion produced by the parents, often called discus milk, before gradually transitioning to independent feeding.