Discus

• ExerciseLow

  A calm, unhurried swimmer — peaceful surroundings suit them best.

• GroomingRoutine tank care

  Weekly partial water changes keep them in top shape.

• Living spaceNano-tank friendly

  Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.

• Owner experienceSome experience helps

  A little know-how makes life smoother.

• Commitment10–15 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Ich (white spot) · Skin conditions · Fin rot

The discus (Symphysodon spp.) is a round, laterally compressed cichlid from the floodplain lakes and slow tributaries of the Amazon River basin. Adults reach 15–20 cm in diameter and live 10–15 years. Uniquely, parents secrete a nutritious skin mucus that their fry graze on for the first weeks of life. Discus are demanding fish best kept in a group of five or six in a tall tank of 200 litres or more, since they are shy and stressed when kept singly. They require warm 28–30°C water, a soft, acidic pH of 6.0–7.0, and above all pristine water quality with frequent large water changes. Provide tall plants, driftwood and dim, calm surroundings. These carnivores eat frozen bloodworms, beef-heart preparations and quality granules several times a day, especially while growing. Their exacting needs make them a project for experienced keepers; the most common problems are hexamita (hole-in-the-head), ich and skin flukes, nearly all traceable to water quality or stress. Consistency in temperature, cleanliness and diet is everything.

• How active is a Discus?

  Low. A calm, unhurried swimmer — peaceful surroundings suit them best.

• How much maintenance does a Discus need?

  Routine tank care. Weekly partial water changes keep them in top shape.

• What tank size does a Discus need?

  Nano-tank friendly. Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.

• Is a Discus a good fit for first-time owners?

  Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.

• How long do Discus live?

  10–15 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Discus?

  Keep an eye out for Ich (white spot), Skin conditions, Fin rot. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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