Discus / Aquarium Tropical Fish

Discus (Symphysodon spp.) are a genus of three species of cichlid freshwater fishes native to the Amazon River basin. Discus are popular as aquarium fish and their aquaculture in several countries in Asia is a major industry.

Like cichlids from the genus Pterophyllum, all Symphysodon species have a laterally compressed body shape. In contrast to Pterophyllum, however, extended finnage is absent giving Symphysodon a more rounded shape. It is this body shape from which their common name, “discus”, is derived. The sides of the fish are frequently patterned in shades of green, red, brown, and blue. The height and length of the grown fish are both about 20–25 cm (8–10 in).

All Discus fish variants originate from the Amazon region in South America. They prefer lakes, deep puddles and smaller rivers and streams. The water in this region is acidic and you should therefore provide your Discus with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5. It is also important that you keep the water in the aquarium soft, 0-3dH is recommended. Discus cichlids like to stay in the shadow during the day and the ideal water temperature in the aquarium is 25-29°C (77-84°F).

If good water quality is not maintained than there is a chance that your Discus fish may become stresses.

If you are suing reverse osmosis to maintain high water quality, it is important for you add necessary minerals and salts that freshwater fish need. These can easily be found at your local fish or pet store.

While Discus fish usually play well with others, they can become slightly protective when they are breeding and it is probably a good idea to isolate them over this period.

Discus fish will eat most types of fish food from live food to fish flakes.

As long as you can keep the water in your tank in the recommended pH range you will be giving your Discus fish the best possible chance to remain healthy.

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Article Source: http://discusfish.com.au/