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November 23, 2009
Freshwater Fish
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Royal Blue Discus
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Royal Blue Discus
Veterinary & Aquatic Services Department, Drs. Foster & Smith, Inc.

The Royal Blue Discus is a relatively new color of the wild South American Discus (Symphysodon aequifasciata), being brilliant blue. Discus are among the most popular aquarium fish.

Discus originate from a habitat of shaded water with branches and other dense cover and this habitat should be duplicated in the aquarium. High quality water conditions (warm, soft, acidic) must be maintained.

Becoming slightly territorial when breeding, it is best to breed an established pair, or maintain a group of young Discus and allow them to pair themselves. Warm, soft, slightly acidic water is required for spawning. The pair will clean a flat surface (usually a broad leaf or the side of the aquarium) prior to spawning. The parents must not be removed from the fry; the fry feed on their parents' mucus.

Largely carnivorous, Symphysodon aequifasciata prefers freeze-dried bloodworms and tubifex, pellet food designed for Discus, high-quality flake food, and meaty frozen foods.

Ideal tank mates include: Guppies, Mollies, Platies, Swordtails, Tetras, Rasboras, Danios, Barbs, Gouramis, Rainbowfish, Cory Cats, Plecos and peaceful scavengers.

Fish Facts
Name: Royal Blue Discus (Symphysodon aequifasciata)
Family: Cichlidae
Range: South America
Size: Up to 6 inches
Diet: Carnivore
Tank Set-up: Freshwater: Plants, driftwood
Tank Conditions: 79-86°F; pH 6.5; dH 3-5
Minimum Tank Capacity: 40 gallons
Light: Low
Temperament: Peaceful
Swimming Level: No specific level
Care Level: Moderate
Reproduction: Egg Depositor
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Picture(s): Courtesy of Drs. Foster and Smith |
Information provided courtesy of PetEducation.com

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