Common Name: Rose Red Discus
Scientific Name: Symphysodon aequifasciatus
Other Names: Pompadour Fish, Discus Fish
The Rose Red Discus is a captive-bred discus color strain, selectively bred for the coloration its name describes. Discus have a round, laterally compressed body, and color usually intensifies as they mature. 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. Captive-bred strains like this one do not occur in the wild. These waters are warm, soft and acidic, and the fallen branches and roots provide shelter for discus groups.
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. They are peaceful and social, 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 82-88°F (28-31°C), with a pH of 6.0-7.0 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:
Intermediate to Advanced. Discus need warm, clean, stable water and frequent water changes. It is best suited to experienced aquarists who can provide the space and water quality it needs.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 82-88°F (28-31°C)
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pH: 6.0-7.0
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General Hardness (GH): 1-8 dGH
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Carbonate Hardness (KH): 1-4 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:
- Discus are social cichlids and do best in groups of five or more.
- Stable, very clean water is the key to success; frequent partial water changes help keep them healthy and colorful.
- Fun fact: Discus parents feed their young with a nutritious mucus produced on their skin, a rare form of parental care among fish.
The Rose Red Discus is a stunning centerpiece fish for keepers ready to maintain warm, clean water. With the right setup and care, it will be a rewarding addition for many years.
