Discus - Assorted (Symphysodon spp.)

Discus (Symphysodon spp.), the King of the Aquarium, are large disc-shaped cichlids from the warm, soft, acidic waters of the Amazon. Our assorted Discus come in a rotating selection of pattern morphs (Blue Diamond, Red Turquoise, Pigeon Blood, Marlboro, Snakeskin, Cobalt, and more) so each fish is a one-of-a-kind centerpiece. Pair with our other freshwater livestock in a warm planted display.

Discus are intermediate-to-advanced fishkeeping. They reward patient hobbyists with brilliant color and personality, but they demand pristine water, warm temperatures, and a peaceful tank. Best kept in groups of five or more so they form a natural social hierarchy.

Care Guide

• Tank size: 55 gallons absolute minimum for a small group. 75 to 125 gallons preferred for adults; taller tanks give them headroom for their disc body shape.
• Group size: Five or more. Single Discus tend to stress and hide; pairs often see one bullied. A loose group spreads aggression and brings out natural behaviors.
• Diet: Carnivore. Frozen bloodworms, frozen brine, blackworms, high-quality Discus pellets, and the classic beef-heart mix. Feed two to three small meals daily.
• Water temperature: 82 to 86°F. Higher than most community fish — Discus run hot. A reliable heater is critical.
• Water chemistry: Soft, slightly acidic. pH 5.5 to 7.0 ideal, GH below 8, KH 1 to 4. Captive-bred fish tolerate up to neutral pH but show their best color in soft water.
• Water changes: 30 to 50 percent weekly for adults; daily 25 percent for grow-out fish. Discus eat heavily and produce a lot of waste relative to their gentle nature.
• Filtration: Oversized canister or sump. Keep flow gentle; Discus dislike strong current.
• Acclimation: Slow drip 60 minutes. Cover the tank for the first 24 hours with low light; Discus are easily startled on arrival.

Specifications

Tank Mates & Compatibility

Pair Discus with other warm-water tolerant, peaceful species. Cardinal Tetras and Rummynose Tetras are the classic Discus dither fish. Sterbai Corydoras handle 82°F+ temperatures (most cories do not). German Blue Rams, Apistogramma species, and small peaceful pencilfish also work. Bristlenose Plecos are typically fine; avoid common plecos that get huge.

Avoid fast or fin-nipping species (Tiger Barbs, Serpae Tetras), large aggressive cichlids (Angelfish are debatable; many keepers do mix them but watch for stress), goldfish, and any fish requiring cool water. Most snails and Amano shrimp are safe; very small ornamental shrimp may be eaten.

Recommended Foods & Supplies

• Hikari Vibra Bites — easy-to-feed pellet many Discus take readily once weaned onto dry food.
• Seachem NutriDiet Chlorella Flakes with Probiotics — vegetable supplement to round out the high-protein diet.
• CaribSea PyroFlora Volcanic Substrate — mineral substrate that helps keep planted Discus tanks slightly acidic.
• Freshwater aquarium plants — Amazon Swords, Anubias, and Bucephalandra all thrive in Discus parameters.
• Water testing kits — non-negotiable for Discus. Test pH, KH, ammonia, and nitrate weekly.

FAQ

Why "assorted"?
Our Discus arrive in mixed lots of various pattern morphs. We hand-select each shipment for shape, color, and finnage. Photos shown are representative; the exact pattern and color of your individual fish will vary. Visit the store to pick the ones you want.

How many should I start with?
Five is the minimum to spread out aggression and let a hierarchy form. Six to eight in a 75+ gallon tank is ideal. Single or paired Discus tend to stress.

Bare-bottom or planted?
Both work. Bare-bottom is easier to keep spotlessly clean and is preferred for grow-out tanks. Planted Discus tanks are stunning displays for adults; choose plants that tolerate 82 to 86°F (Anubias, Java Fern, Amazon Sword, Crypts).

Do they really need 82+ degree water?
Yes. Discus from cooler tanks chronically stress, become more disease-prone, and grow slowly. The warm water is non-negotiable.

How do I feed beef heart?
Beef-heart mix is high-protein and the classic Discus food, but it fouls water fast. Feed small amounts only what they eat in two minutes, siphon any uneaten food immediately, and do a water change the next day. Many keepers feed it once or twice weekly as a treat.