Red Snakeskin Discus 9cm

Red Snakeskin Discus 

Snakeskin Discus is easily one of the most popular, readily available, and vibrant discus strains in the hobby. After being in the aquarium hobby for so many years, breeders have been able to develop the colours and patterns further to the point where a totally new strain has been made. The Red Snakeskin Discus takes all the stunning factors of the standard snakeskin strain whilst really enhancing the red colouration. 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 one of the world's best display aquarium fish, discus are often regarded as the pinnacle fish of the freshwater aquarium hobby and are highly sought after. This Red Snakeskin Discus essentially has no blue whilst still maintaining the snakeskin pattern, this is substituted with a shimmering orange sheen which really changes the overall colour these fish have. Differing from the blue and red of common Snakeskin Discus these fish have little contrast but the shimmering colours and overall orange - the red hue is stunning. Additionally, they also sport some mild barring which is a lot more frequent and thinner compared to other strains which is unique to see.

When kept in an optimal environment and healthy, these discus are breathtaking. Just like any other discus, the Red Snakeskin Discus has slightly different care requirements when compared to other aquarium fish, primarily 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 Red Snakeskin Discus

Red Snakeskin 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 liters, it is recommended to go larger when keeping a discus because a larger water volume will mean more stable conditions which is what the discus prefers. Tank dimensions are also important when maintaining 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 open swimming space will be best appreciated by them. These Red Snakeskin Discus also love 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 Red Snakeskin 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 Red Snakeskin Discus

Red Snakeskin 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.