Discus
Demanding, disc-shaped cichlid with magnificent coloring, regarded as the "king of the aquarium."
Origin & history
Native to the Amazon basin in Brazil and Peru, where it lives in calm, warm tributaries; bred as an aquarium fish since the 1950s and became a status symbol among aquarists for its striking coloring.
Care
Needs very stable water parameters, warm water (28-30°C), and large weekly water changes. Not for beginners - requires experience.
Ideal environment
Needs a large, tall tank (min. 300 liters) with soft, acidic water and little current. Group housing of at least 6 animals recommended.
Feeding
Carnivorous with high protein needs: special discus food, supplemented with frozen and live food like red mosquito larvae.
Health
Very sensitive to water fluctuations, prone to hole-in-the-head disease and intestinal parasites under stress. Regular water parameter checks are essential.