Family: Cichlidae
Distribution: Symphysodon aequifasciatus, commonly known as Blue Discus, is a freshwater species found in the Amazon River basin along the Solimoes-Amazon River from the Putumayo River in Peru and Columbia, through to Brazil’s Tocantins River basin; it is distributed in the rocky areas of tributaries.
PH: 5.0 – 8.0
Temperature: 26°C – 30C (79 – 86F)
Hardness: 0 – 12 dH
Description: Symphysodon aequifasciatus can reach a maximum length of around 14 cm in an aquarium. This peaceful cichlid is one of the most highly sought-after aquarium species thanks to its beautiful appearance: it has striped horizontal markings, a flat tail and a blue and grey body colouration. Males have a pointed genital papilla, while females have a rounded papilla. This species can, if treated properly, live up to 10 years in an aquarium.
Diet: The Blue Discus, a carnivore, can be given Tubifex, mosquito larvae, quality flakes and specially formulated pellets.
Breeding: Symphysodon aequifasciatus can be very difficult to breed in a tank. This egg-layer will spawn on specially cleaned stones. The free swimming fry will eat a slime off the sides of the parents, so do not remove the parents prematurely from the tank. It would be a good option to make daily water changes – around 10 – 20 per cent – during this period, and make sure the tank is very clean.
Comments: A pair of Symphysodon aequifasciatus can be kept in a decent sized tank of around 75 litres, but a bigger tank is recommended. This species will feel more at home in a dimly lit tank with a weak current, and surrounded by plenty of rocks and leaves. This species is moderately difficult to look after and is therefore better suited to experienced hobbyists.
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Recommended Compatible Species: They will live happily with most Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetraand Black Tetra). They are also great tank mates with other Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, CorydorasCatfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppyand Platyand most Gourami(such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also can live happily with most Danio(particularly the Zebra Danioand Pearl Danio) and also many Killifish make great tank mates.
Originally posted 2010-01-26 12:06:42. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
