Assorted discus fish

🐠 Discus Fish

Discus fish (genus Symphysodon) are often called the “king of freshwater aquariums” because of their striking colors and graceful, round shape.

• Origin: Amazon River basin in Amazon River
• Size: 6–8 inches (sometimes larger in captivity)
• Water temp: 82–86°F (very warm!)
• pH: Soft, slightly acidic (around 6.0–6.8)
• Temperament: Peaceful but sensitive
• Diet: Omnivore (high-protein pellets, frozen foods, beef heart mixes)

Discus are exceptional parents. Both mother and father produce a mucus coating on their skin that newly hatched fry feed on for the first few weeks — similar to how mammals nurse their young.

They’re beautiful but considered intermediate to advanced fish because they require pristine water quality and stable chemistry.