Discus
Symphysodon aequifasciatus
Cichlidae
About
The discus is the celebrated 'king of the aquarium', a laterally compressed, almost circular cichlid from the slow, warm blackwater tributaries of the Amazon basin. Its disc-shaped body is as tall as it is long, so it needs vertical swimming room as much as floor space, and it demands very warm, soft, acidic and spotlessly clean water. Discus are peaceful but shy and form dominance hierarchies, so they are kept in groups of six or more to spread out any bullying.
Care
Provide a tall, roomy tank (250 L+, around 50 cm high) with very warm (28-30 C), soft, acidic water kept pristine through frequent large water changes. Keep a group of 6 or more and pair only with calm, slow-feeding tankmates; avoid boisterous or fin-nipping fish.
Diet
Omnivore leaning carnivorous and a slow, deliberate feeder that is easily out-competed. Feed frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp and blackworms plus quality granules in small, frequent meals, and choose gentle companions.
Tankmate compatibility
Gets along with (9)
Possible with care (70)
Avoid (42)
Computed by the AquaSage engine for a spacious reference tank — always check the full verdict for your exact setup in the calculator.