Discus

Dicus Overview

Scientific Name: Symphysodon species
Origin: Amazon Basin, South America
Adult Size: Up to 20 cm (around 8 inches)
Temperament: Peaceful but sensitive  
Difficulty Level: Intermediate to advanced
Tank Size: 230L +
Tempurature: 29 - 30°C

Discus are best kept in groups and require stable water conditions to remain healthy. Because of their specific care requirements, they are generally recommended for aquarists who already have some experience maintaining aquariums.

Aquarium Requirements for Discus

Discus require a spacious aquarium with excellent water quality and stable temperatures.

Typical aquarium conditions include:

  • Tank Size: 250 litres or larger recommended

  • Temperature: 28–30°C

  • pH Range: Around 6.0 – 7.0

  • Filtration: High-quality filtration with gentle flow

  • Aquarium Type: Planted or open aquascapes with driftwood

These fish prefer warm water and consistent conditions. Sudden changes in temperature or water quality can cause stress, so regular maintenance and water testing are important.

Feeding Discus Fish

Discus require a varied diet to stay healthy and maintain their vibrant colours.

A good feeding routine may include:

  • High quality discus pellets or flakes

  • Frozen foods such as bloodworms or brine shrimp

  • Specialised discus foods

  • Occasional live foods

Many aquarists feed smaller portions several times a day, especially when growing young fish. A varied diet helps support growth, colour, and overall health.

Behaviour and Tank Mates

Discus are generally peaceful fish that do best in calm community aquariums with other gentle species.

They are naturally social fish and should ideally be kept in groups of five or more. Keeping them in groups helps reduce stress and encourages natural behaviour.

Suitable tank mates may include: Tetras, Corydoras catfish, Rummy nose tetras, Peaceful dwarf cichlids

Avoid aggressive or very fast fish, as these can stress discus during feeding.

Setting Up a Discus Aquarium

A discus aquarium should prioritise stable water conditions and plenty of open swimming space.
Popular aquascape styles include:

  • Natural Amazon-style aquariums with driftwood and warm-toned water

  • Planted aquariums with species tolerant of higher temperatures

  • Minimalist display tanks designed to showcase the fish

Good filtration, regular water changes, and careful stocking are key to maintaining a healthy discus tank.

Discus at Smith’s Aquatics

At Smith’s Aquatics in Stockton-on-Tees, we regularly stock a selection of discus varieties with different colours and patterns.
Our team can help you with:

  • Choosing healthy discus fish

  • Planning a suitable aquarium setup

  • Selecting compatible tank mates

  • Advice on feeding and maintenance

If you are interested in keeping discus, visit our store to speak with our aquatics team and learn more about these impressive tropical fish.