Local Discus 4-5cm

These have been bred locally 

Discus fish (scientific name: Symphysodon) are a popular species of freshwater fish known for their striking appearance, peaceful nature, and relatively challenging care requirements. Here is some basic information about discus fish:

1. Appearance

• Shape: Discus fish have a distinctive, round, and flattened body shape, resembling a disc (hence their name).
• Coloration: They come in a variety of vibrant colors, including shades of red, blue, green, and yellow, often with intricate patterns like stripes or spots.
• Size: Adult discus fish typically grow to around 6–8 inches (15–20 cm) in diameter, though some may reach up to 10 inches (25 cm).

2. Habitat

• Origin: Discus fish are native to the Amazon River basin in South America, where they inhabit slow-moving waters like streams and rivers.
• Water Conditions: They prefer warm, soft, acidic water with a temperature range of 82-86°F (28-30°C), a pH of 6.0–7.0, and low hardness.

3. Behavior and Temperament

• Social: Discus fish are peaceful and social, often found in schools in the wild. They prefer being kept in groups of 3 or more in captivity.
• Shyness: In new environments, discus can be shy and may take some time to adjust. They are not aggressive but can be territorial during breeding.

4. Diet

• Omnivorous: They are primarily carnivorous but will also eat plant-based foods. A varied diet that includes high-quality pellets, live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and vegetables such as spinach is ideal.
• Feeding Frequency: Discus fish need to be fed multiple times a day in small amounts to prevent overfeeding and ensure proper nutrition.

5. Tank Setup

• Size: Due to their size and social nature, discus fish require a spacious tank. A minimum of 50 gallons (189 liters) for a small group is recommended.
• Water Quality: They are sensitive to water quality, so regular water changes (at least 25% weekly) and filtration are crucial to maintaining a healthy environment.

6. Care Requirements

• Temperature: As tropical fish, they require consistently warm water, typically between 82°F and 86°F (28°C–30°C).
• Water Chemistry: Discus fish thrive in soft, acidic water. A water hardness of 1–4 dGH and a pH between 6.0–7.0 are ideal.
• Maintenance: Regular water changes, a high-quality filtration system, and good tank mates (peaceful species) are important for their well-being.

8. Tankmates

• Compatible Species: Discus fish do well with other peaceful fish like deep bodied tetras, corydoras catfish, and gourami. Avoid aggressive or fin-nipping species that could stress them out.

9. Challenges

• Sensitive to Water Conditions: Discus fish are more sensitive to changes in water parameters than many other aquarium fish.
• Expensive: Due to their beauty and care requirements, discus fish can be expensive to acquire and maintain.
• Time-Consuming: They require more attention than many other fish, especially regarding water quality and feeding.

In summary, discus fish are stunning and fascinating creatures that can thrive in a well-maintained aquarium. However, they are best suited for experienced fishkeepers who can provide the stable, clean, and warm environment they need to flourish.