Assorted Discus (Symphysodon aequifasciata)
Discus (Symphysodon aequifasciata) are often referred to as the king of aquarium fish. This nickname arose from the sheer beauty of these fish along with their reputation for being difficult to care for, making those who keep them successfully revered within the hobby. It being difficult to keep discus was an opinion developed when majority of specimens available were wild caught. With most now being captive bred and even line bred to produce many different color variants such as turquoise and pigeon blood, they are much more hardy. That being said, discus still require very clean, soft, acidic water with little to no nitrates and warm temperatures.
These peaceful cichlids tend to be timid, especially when it comes to feeding, so they should be fed carefully and in small portions. They thrive in well-maintained tanks with stable water parameters and ample hiding places.
| Species | Symphysodon aequifasciata |
|---|---|
| Color Variants | Turquoise, Pigeon Blood |
| Water Type | Soft, acidic, low nitrates |
| Temperature | Warm (26–28°C) |
| Breeding | Captive bred, line bred |
FAQ
What are the ideal water conditions for discus fish?
Discus require soft, acidic water with low nitrates and a temperature between 26–28°C.
Are discus easy to care for in a home aquarium?
While early perceptions suggested discus were difficult to keep, modern captive-bred specimens are much harderier. They still require stable water conditions and careful feeding, but are more manageable than in the past.
What color variants are available in this assortment?
The assortment includes turquoise and pigeon blood color variants.
Amelia Wright –
The discus arrived healthy and vibrant. The colors are striking, especially the turquoise ones. I’ve maintained stable water parameters and they’ve been active and calm since setup. Feeding them requires patience, but they respond well to small, frequent meals.
Julia Wright –
I was cautious about keeping discus due to past advice, but these fish are much more resilient than I expected. The water needs are clear, and they stay peaceful. I appreciate the variety in colors—pigeon blood looks stunning in my tank.
Sophie Avery –
After a few weeks, the discus have settled into their environment. They don’t jump around much and seem content. I keep the tank temperature steady and water soft, which seems to be key for their well-being.