Discus
fish have
been kept in aquariums since the 1920′s. For many, they are
considered the “kings and queens” of the tank. Their unique shape
and bright patterns and colors have brought the spotlight of
attention to wherever they might find themselves.
Discus
fish are part of a large group of fish know as cichlids. In general,
cichlids are freshwater fish that come from the Cichlidae family.
Approximately 1,500 or so cichlid species have been identified. That
makes the Cichlidae the largest family of vertebrates. And, it is
possible that there could be many more cichlid species in the world,
some of which have not yet been discovered and identified.
It
is quite interesting to note that cichlid sizes range from as small
as one inch to as large as 36 inches. Their shapes also vary: some
are laterally compressed while others are elongated and cylindrical.
They are mostly found in freshwater, although some can tolerate short
periods of being in brackish or saltwater.
Three Species of Discus
Discus
happen to be just one of the 1500 cichlid species. Their scientific
designation is the genus Symphysodon. There are three know species of
discus. They are Symphysodon aequifasciatus (common discus, also
identified as green discus), the Heckel discus (Symphysodon discus),
and Symphysodon haraldi (the blue/brown/common discus).
Appearance of Discus
Discus
are somewhat similar in appearance to the genus Pterophyllum, which
includes angelfish, because they have a round, laterally compressed
body shape (hence the name “discus”). But the discus does not
have extended fins like you find in angelfish, and the shape of the
discus is definitely more rounded.
Discus
are usually quite colorful, sporting shades of red, green, brown and
blue. There are also frequently patterns of stripes or spots, leading
to names such as “leopard” or “snakeskin”.
Normally,
you will purchase discus that are about 2.5″ in height and width,
however, full grown discus can be 6″ to 8″ in height and width.
Discus Origins
Discus
fish call South America home. Unless they are in an aquarium, you
will not find them in any other part of the world. Specifically, they
populate the Amazon River basin and its tributaries. Now, that may
seem like a limited habitat, but remember that the Amazon is the
longest river in the world. So there is plenty of area for discus
habitation. In their original surroundings, they live in very muddy
water with lots of vegetation.Discus Difficulties – maybe, maybe not
Over
the years, discus fish have gotten some bad press. This may or may
not be deserved.
One
camp suggests that discus fish are very difficult to keep, while
another says that they are not.
Truth
be told, discus fish are not any more difficult than other species if
you have the knowledge of what will make them happy and healthy.
If
you are thinking about adopting discus fish, make sure you know
enough BEFORE you bring them home… later may be too late.