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Mandarin Discus

Price

$30.00

The Discus Fish is often called the “King of the Aquarium” due to its vibrant colors, graceful movements, and round, laterally compressed body. Native to the slow-moving waters of the Amazon River Basin (mainly in Brazil, Peru, and Colombia), Discus are admired worldwide for their striking appearance and peaceful demeanor.

 

  • Scientific Name: Symphysodon spp.
  • Average Size: 5 to 7 inches (12–18 cm) in diameter
  • Lifespan: 10–15 years with excellent care
  • Body Shape: Round and disk-like, giving them their name
  • Color Varieties: Red, blue, green, yellow, albino, turquoise, and countless hybrid strains with intricate patterns

 

Discus are social creatures and feel most comfortable when kept in groups of 5 or more. They are known for forming a strict pecking order and display fascinating social interactions.

Size

Quantity

Care Guide

Tank Requirements

  • Tank Size: Minimum of 55 gallons for a small group (5–6 fish); larger is always better.
  • Water Temperature: 82°F to 86°F (28°C to 30°C)
  • pH Level: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic)
  • Water Hardness: Soft water preferred; 1–8 dGH
  • Filtration: Strong biological filtration with gentle flow; Discus hate strong currents.
  • Aquascaping: Sand or fine gravel substrate; driftwood, rocks, and live plants like Amazon swords, java fern, and anubias are good with proper maintenance.

 

Water Quality

  • Extremely clean water is critical — Discus are very sensitive!
  • Perform 25–50% water changes every 2–3 days.
  • Keep nitrate levels below 20 ppm.
  • Use dechlorinated and preferably aged water.

 

Feeding

  • Diet: High-quality and varied diet.
  • Good foods include:
  • Brine shrimp
  • High-protein pellet or granule food made for Discus
  • Beef heart mix (specialized recipes)
  • Occasional flakes for variety
  • Feed 2–3 small meals daily and remove uneaten food promptly.

 

Tankmates

  • Choose calm, non-aggressive species that thrive in warm water, such as:
  • Cardinal tetras
  • Rummy nose tetras
  • Corydoras catfish (species tolerant of warm water)
  • German blue rams
  • Small plecos (like bristlenose plecos)
  • Avoid: Fin-nippers and overly active species like tiger barbs.

 

Common Challenges

  • Stress: Easily stressed by loud noises, quick movements, or poor water conditions.
  • Parasites: Discus are prone to internal parasites and external infections if water quality drops.
  • Shyness: Newly introduced Discus may hide or refuse food for a few days — patience is key.

 

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Bonus Tips for Happy Discus

  • Always quarantine new fish before introducing them to a Discus tank.
  • Maintain consistent tank parameters — sudden changes can be fatal.
  • Talk softly and move slowly around their aquarium to keep them relaxed.
  • Observe their behavior daily — early detection of illness is critical.

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