Leopard Discus 5cm

Leopard Discus

Leopard discus is easily one of the most popular, readily available, and vibrant discus strains in the hobby. They have such striking patterning with what’s considered to be a blend of captive colours that still maintain the essence of wild discus. This leopard-style pattern is not seen as common in other aquarium fish and that makes these fish such a popular strain. These are a captive developed strain and they will be well suited to aquarium life but are most certainly not a beginner fish to consider.  

Being of the world's best display aquarium fish, discus is often regarded as the pinnacle fish of the freshwater aquarium hobby and is highly sought after. Wild discus often tends to have red spots that are surrounded by blue in very small areas mostly isolated around the face. Through the efforts of captive breeding though, these fish have been developed to have this patterning essentially from head to tail. There are actually two main body colours on this discus, the face and bid section tend to be a cream, sandal colour with hints of grey and purple which then lead into a distinctive powder blue. The blue does tend to be on around 60% of the body which looks absolutely stunning. The ‘leopard’ patterning is provided by a deep blood-red array of spots and squiggles that run from head to tail. Some fish can also show black barring across the body as well. 

When kept in an optimal environment and healthy, these discus are breathtaking. Just like any other discus the Leopard discus has 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 which 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 off naturally. The wild discus originates from the Amazon basin. 

Tank Recommendations for your Leopard Discus

Leopard discus is 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 the 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. This solid red cover discus also loves plants in the aquarium which will also make them stand out really well. Another great setting for this strain specifically is to put them in an aquarium with a blue background which contrasts immensely against the red spots and really makes the fish stand out. 

Suitable Tank Buddies

The Leopard discus is a very peaceful fish. Discus are ever so slightly territorial however this will never be a concerning factor in 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 Leopard Discus

Leopard 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.