Discus Fishes a brief, they are scientifically known as Symphysodon, are members of the Family Cichlids and Tribe Heroini. Though it is an endemic species of Amazon River basin in South America, with particular care and maintenance, discus can be fit into home aquarium conditions too. It is one of the most beautiful fresh water fish with distinctive shape and gorgeous color. Due to its majestic beauty and splendid color patterns, it is otherwise called ‘The king of aquarium’.

Symphysodon are highly social, typically occurring in groups that may number many dozens of individuals. This is a very unique nature among Cichlids. They are generally found calm and peaceful, but in certain occasions, especially when attempting to pair off and spawn, they become aggressive towards one another. Wild caught discuss require specialized water chemistry and dietary needs. Thus, for a beginner, it requires a bit of learning. Most of the discus which is used for home aquarium is captive bred. This is comparatively easy to rear for beginners also.

Life of Discus fish

Discus Fish live for an average of 10- 15 years and can grow up to 8 inches. Due to their size, they often require an aquarium of 75 gallons or larger when full grown. Tall aquariums are best to accommodate their body shape. It has a round, flattened body and large extended fins which also add to its disc like shape (from which it get its name). Discus fishes prefer areas with gentle water movements and plenty of underwater debris as it likes to forage along the bottom for food. Discus Fish eat a considerable amount of plant materials, detritus, worms, molluscs and small crustaceans. It reaches its sexual maturity within a year itself. Thus, through a selective breeding, more brightly marked variants with higher survival ability can be produced. In short, it could light up the room with its royal and elegant appearance.