Discus care guide
Discus (Symphysodon discus) — minimum tank 250 L, temperature 26-30 °C, pH 5.5-7. Peaceful middle-water species.
Overview
The Discus (Symphysodon discus) is a large cichlid recognised by its disc-shaped, laterally compressed body and intricate colour patterns. It demands stable, warm and very clean water, a specialised diet and a spacious tank, which makes it a challenge best suited to experienced aquarists.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Symphysodon
- Scientific name: Symphysodon discus
- Common synonyms: King of the Aquarium
Habitat
Native to floodplain lakes and slow river margins of the central Amazon basin in Brazil. The species favours warm, soft, dimly lit blackwater or clearwater habitats with extensive submerged wood and leaf litter.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 250 L (66 US gal)
- Adult size: 15-20 cm
- Temperature: 26-30 °C (79-86 °F)
- pH: 5.5-7
- GH: 1-5 °dGH
- Water flow: low
- Lifespan: 8-15 years
- School size: ≥5 individuals
Diet
An omnivore with relatively long intestines, suggesting a significant plant and detritus component alongside small invertebrates in the wild. In aquaria offer a specialised discus pellet supplemented with frozen bloodworms, daphnia and beef-heart preparations; feed multiple small portions daily.
Compatibility
Highly social and best kept in groups of at least five conspecifics. Compatible with Cardinal Tetra, Rummy-nose Tetra, Sterbai Corydoras (which tolerate warm water) and Bristlenose Pleco. Avoid keeping with Tiger Barb, Oscar or other aggressive species.
Breeding
A substrate-spawning cichlid with exceptional parental care: adults secrete a mucus through the skin ("discus milk") on which larvae feed during their first weeks. Pair formation, stable soft-water parameters and dim, quiet conditions are required for successful spawning.