Stardust Discus 5cm

Stardust Discus

Discus have held a pinnacle position in the freshwater aquarium hobby for decades and continue to be regarded as one of the most prestigious fish an aquarist can own. Their peaceful temperament, graceful swimming behaviour and incredible variety of selectively bred colour strains have made them virtually unchallenged as the ultimate freshwater display fish. The Stardust Discus is one of the more unique modern strains, combining a clean base colour with an abundance of metallic spotting that gives these fish their fitting name.

The Stardust Discus displays a beautiful cream to pale blue base colour that is generously covered with fine iridescent blue and turquoise spotting across the body and fins. As these fish mature, the spotting becomes increasingly dense, creating the appearance of countless tiny stars scattered across the body. Depending on the individual, subtle yellow, silver and pastel blue tones may also develop through the shoulders and face, giving every fish a slightly different appearance. Against a black background or densely planted aquarium, the metallic spotting really shines through and quickly makes this fish the centrepiece of the aquarium.

Trying to distinguish males from females in discus is extremely difficult, with very few reliable visual differences between the sexes. The most successful method is to purchase a group of juveniles and allow compatible pairs to form naturally. Once paired, they will lay rows of adhesive eggs on smooth vertical surfaces before both parents carefully guard the eggs and later nourish the fry using the specialised mucus produced from their skin.

Tank Recommendations for your Stardust Discus

Discus are a large-growing fish, reaching around 20 cm, and require stable, high-quality water conditions. A minimum aquarium size of 250 litres is recommended, although larger aquariums are always preferred as they provide greater water stability.

A planted aquarium with driftwood and open swimming areas provides an excellent environment for discus. These fish particularly appreciate taller aquariums that allow them to comfortably display their full body profile. Stable water quality, elevated temperatures and regular water changes are all essential for long-term success. A black background works particularly well with this strain, as it really allows the metallic spotting to stand out.

Suitable Tank Buddies

The Stardust Discus is a peaceful fish that should be maintained alongside other calm community species capable of tolerating warmer water temperatures.

Usually Compatible
Cardinal tetras, rummynose tetras, Sterbai Corydoras, German blue rams, peaceful bristlenose catfish and other slow-moving community fish.

Sometimes Compatible
Peaceful angelfish, larger tetras and smaller Geophagus species may coexist successfully in larger aquariums where competition for food remains minimal.

Rarely Compatible
Fast-moving barbs, aggressive cichlids and highly active schooling fish should generally be avoided, as they may stress the discus or outcompete them during feeding.

Feeding your Stardust Discus

Discus readily accept a wide variety of prepared foods once settled into the aquarium. The ideal diet would consist of a quality slow-sinking discus pellet supplemented with frozen bloodworms, blackworms, brine shrimp and mysis shrimp. Feeding a varied diet will help maintain excellent body condition whilst bringing out the beautiful iridescent spotting that gives this strain its "Stardust" appearance.