The first discus known, Symphysodon discus discus was described by Johann Jacob Heckel (1790-1857), and is known as the Discus Heckel.
Discus originate in the mixed waters of the Brazilian Amazon River of South America. The Amazon and its tributaries contain water described as either white, clear or black. It is in the areas where these waters "mix" that many distinct families of fish thrive, including S. discus and its sub-species. The Discus is also found in the mixed water regions of Columbia and Peru.
Discus are peaceful fish and should not be kept with aggressive tank mates. They are carnivores, and do best on a diet of bloodworms, brine shrimp, and beef heart. It can be difficult, to encourage Discus to eat flaked food, and virtually impossible if they are wild-caught.
Today, the Discus is a favorite among experienced freshwater aquarists and does very well in planted aquariums.
