Common Name: Green Tefe Discus
Scientific Name: Symphysodon aequifasciatus
Other Names: Pompadour Fish, Discus Fish
The Green Tefe Discus is a wild-caught green discus associated with the Lago Tefé region of Brazil. Discus have a round, laterally compressed body, and wild fish show natural patterns that vary by collection location. Discus are famous for their calm, graceful swimming and their social behavior, and they are often considered the pinnacle of freshwater fishkeeping.
Habitat and Distribution:
Wild discus come from the Amazon basin of South America, where they live in slow-moving floodplain waters among submerged branches. Blackwater habitats are stained brown by tannins from decaying leaves and wood, and the water is typically very soft and acidic.
Size and Lifespan:
Adults reach about 6-8 inches (15-20 cm). With proper care they commonly live 10-15 years.
Diet and Behavior:
Discus are omnivorous and feed on small invertebrates and plant matter in the wild. In the aquarium, offer discus pellets or granules, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp and beef heart mix. Wild discus are peaceful but shy, and should be kept in groups of five or more with calm tank mates. Feed a varied diet and remove uneaten food promptly to protect water quality.
Breeding and Reproduction:
Discus are open spawners. A bonded pair lays its eggs on a vertical surface such as a spawning cone, broad leaf or the aquarium glass, and both parents guard the eggs. After hatching, the fry initially feed on a nutritious mucus produced on the parents’ skin. Breeding success depends on a compatible pair and soft, very clean water.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
A tall tank of at least 55 gallons is recommended for a small group, or 75 gallons or more for five or six. Provide gentle, efficient filtration and simple décor such as driftwood and hardy plants. Many keepers use a bare or lightly covered bottom to make cleaning easier. Frequent partial water changes are key to keeping discus healthy and colorful. The water temperature should be kept between 82-86°F (28-30°C), with a pH of 5.0-6.5 and soft water.
Ideal Tank Mates:
Good tank mates include peaceful fish that tolerate warm water, such as cardinal and rummy-nose tetras, heat-tolerant corydoras and small plecos. Avoid fin-nippers and fast, boisterous fish that may outcompete discus at feeding time. As with any aquarium, introduce new fish carefully and watch for signs of stress or aggression.
Difficulty Level:
Advanced. Wild discus need warm, soft, clean, stable water and can take time to settle in. It is recommended only for experienced aquarists with the resources to meet its long-term needs.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 82-86°F (28-30°C)
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pH: 5.0-6.5
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General Hardness (GH): 1-5 dGH
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Carbonate Hardness (KH): 0-3 dKH
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Ammonia: 0 ppm
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Nitrite: 0 ppm
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Nitrate: <20 ppm (regular water changes required)
Additional Information:
- Wild discus are more sensitive than captive-bred strains and need soft, clean water.
- Discus are social cichlids and do best in groups of five or more.
- Fun fact: Discus parents feed their young with a nutritious mucus produced on their skin, a rare form of parental care among fish.
The Green Tefe Discus is a natural, wild-type discus for experienced keepers. With the right setup and care, it will be a rewarding addition for many years.
