Altum Flora Discus 5cm

Altum Flora Discus

Discus have held the pinnacle position of aquarium fish for decades at this stage and are pretty much unchallenged due to their colours, peaceful behaviour, a challenge to keep nature, and overall allure. The art of captive breeding has allowed hobbyists to create countless strains that sport different colours and patterning but some variations capture the spotlight more. One of these is the altum flora discus which takes traits from already existing beloved strains like tiger turquoise and pigeon blood but elevates them more.

These fish get their name due to the almost floral patterning they have, they look quite similar to tiger turquoise discus but have evident variations which make this strain so special. The dominance of reds is certainly higher in this strain with blends of terracotta, wine, and caramel notes. The brighter reds are located towards the fins whilst the deeper earthy tones are more centralised. The blue is incredibly vibrant as well sporting a neon or powder blue look which gives it a glowing, metallic tone, the lines of blue however are much thinner. Just like any other discus the altum flora’s have slightly different care requirements when compared to other aquarium fish, primarily being their temperature. Discus need elevated aquarium temperatures of around 28-30 degrees to thrive and also can be very sensitive to water parameters making them a challenge to keep. They are however very peaceful fish and can be kept with a wide range of peaceful aquarium fish which can handle the warmer temperatures that discus need.

Trying to find males and females in discus is a very difficult task as there are no immediate distinguishing factors. If a breeding attempt is made, then it is better to get a group of at least 5-6 and let them pair off naturally. These fish will lay eggs on a smooth surface and guard them until they are well-developed free-swimming fry which makes them a fantastic fish to try to breed. The wild discus originates from the Amazon basin and has very different colours of captive-bred strains.

Tank Recommendations for your Altum Flora Discus

Discus is a large growing fish reaching around 20 cm long and equally tall. Because of this, they do need a relatively large aquarium of around 190 litres, it is recommended to go larger when keeping discus because a larger water volume will mean more stable conditions which is what discus prefer. Tank dimensions are also important when keeping discus, an aquarium with both height and length is needed because of the large profile that discus grows to. Discus can be a shy fish at times so an aquascape that provides both cover and also open swimming space will be best appreciated by them. They also love plants in the aquarium which makes them stand out against the green as well however another great setting for this strain specifically is to put them in an aquarium with a jet black background which makes their colours pop.

Suitable Tank Buddies

The altum flora discus is a very peaceful fish. Discus are ever so slightly territorial however this will never be a concerning factor of their behaviour. These fish will get along with a wide range of community fish. Fast-moving fish however should be avoided because they may outcompete the discus for food.

Usually Compatible

Cardinal tetras, german blue rams, Corydoras, and other common slow-moving peaceful fish.

Sometime Compatible

Fin nipping species such as barbs, fast-moving or larger-bodied tetras, and cichlids such as black widow tetras. Shrimp may also be sometimes compatible with discus

Rarely Compatible

large aggressive species such as African cichlids, Oscars, and Jaguar cichlids.

Feeding your Altum Flora Discus

Discus like most common tropical aquarium fish are very easy to feed. They should be given a good quality pellet or flake food. They can also happily eat both floating and sinking pellets but a slow sinking pellet would offer the best of both worlds. This should also be supplemented with frozen foods such as black worms, blood worms, or brine shrimp to bring out optimal health and colours in the fish. Feeding should occur once a day and can occur when lights are on.