Assorted Discus 9cm

Assorted Discus

Discus are often regarded as the pinnacle of fish species for aquarists to keep. Many spend years preparing to keep these stunning fish; however, with the right aquarium and maintenance, discus can be a very rewarding fish to keep. Discus are actually a cichlid however, their care is quite different, as these fish are more sensitive to swings in water parameters and also require warmer temperatures.

Discus also comes in a wide assortment of colours and patterns with strain names like blue diamond, pigeon blood, tiger turquoise, leopard snakeskin, and more. The assortment of colours is so fast that it can often be hard to choose what to get, and that's where it might just be easier to go for an assorted lucky dip. This is where the assorted option is perfect, as it's a great way to experience all the readily available strains.

When kept in an optimal environment and healthy, these discus are breathtaking. As mentioned earlier, discus 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 community tank mates that can tolerate the warmer waters. 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 up naturally. The wild discus originates from the Amazon basin.

Tank Recommendations for your Assorted Discus

Discus are a large, growing fish reaching around 20 cm, both long and tall. Because of this, they do need a relatively large aquarium of around 200 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 grow to. Discus can be a shy fish at times, so an aquascape that provides both cover and open swimming space will be best appreciated by them.

Suitable Tank Buddies

The 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 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 compatible with discus.

Rarely Compatible

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

Feeding your Assorted Discus

Discus may be shy when first introduced, but should take to prepared aquarium foods easily. Their ideal diet needs to consist of a good quality pellet or flake, which is supplemented with frozen or live invertebrate-based foods like brine shrimp or black worms.