Leopard Discus Care Guide
Leopard Discus is a selectively bred ornamental line of Symphysodon, a laterally compressed Amazonian cichlid that practises intensive biparental care.
Overview
The Leopard Discus is a selectively bred ornamental line of the genus Symphysodon, a group of cichlids native to the Amazon River basin. Discus have a strongly laterally compressed, near-circular body. Many aquarium discus are captive-bred colour forms derived from wild green, blue and brown discus rather than from wild fish caught for the trade.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Symphysodon
- Designation: Symphysodon sp. "Leopard" (captive-bred ornamental line)
- Recognised wild species in the genus: Symphysodon aequifasciatus, S. discus, S. tarzoo
Habitat
Wild Symphysodon inhabit the lowland Amazon basin, living along the margins of floodplain lakes and slow-moving forest tributaries. They occur in deep, sheltered areas around submerged tree roots and rocks, and favour calm, lentic water with abundant cover.
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: keep in a group of 5 or more
- Lifespan: 8-12 years
- Water flow: low
Diet
Discus are omnivores with relatively long intestines typical of an omnivore. Wild fish consume algae, plant material and aquatic invertebrates. In aquaria they accept prepared foods alongside live and frozen invertebrate foods, fed in small portions twice daily.
Compatibility
Discus are peaceful, social cichlids that occur in groups and prefer plenty of cover to feel secure. They swim mostly in the middle of the water column. Suitable companions are calm, warm-water species such as small tetras and Corydoras catfish; boisterous or aggressive tank mates should be avoided.
Breeding
Symphysodon are substrate spawners that deposit eggs on a vertical surface, and both parents guard the eggs and fry. Adult discus secrete a skin mucus, commonly called "discus milk", on which the larvae feed during roughly their first four weeks before becoming independent.