All our fish, shrimp and corals are bagged with fresh oxygen as well as a heat pack in winter.
When ordering livestock please select the box size and add it to your cart for accurate overnight (1-2 days) shipping costs. A small box can take 1-2 bags and a medium box 6 bags. One bag fits max 10 small (1-3cm) fish or max 2 medium (3-5cm) fish or max 1 large (>5cm) fish.
ONE SPECIES PER BAG. Eg: One bag of 10 neon tetra.
Discus Cichlid (Symphysodon spp.)
Description:
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Appearance:
- Body: Disc-shaped with a laterally compressed body. Known for their striking and vibrant colors.
- Color: Available in various color morphs including red, blue, green, and brown, often with patterns like stripes, spots, or solid colors. The coloration can be vivid and eye-catching.
- Size: Typically grows to about 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) in diameter, although some varieties can grow larger.
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Behavior:
- Activity: Generally peaceful but can be shy and reserved. They prefer a calm and stable environment.
- Social Structure: Social fish that do well in groups. They form tight-knit schools and are best kept with other Discus Cichlids. They can be territorial and may become stressed if kept in unsuitable conditions or with aggressive tank mates.
Care Requirements:
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Tank Size:
- Minimum of 75 gallons (284 liters) for a small group. Larger tanks are preferable as Discus Cichlids benefit from more space to establish territories and reduce stress.
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Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 82-86°F (28-30°C). They require warm water to thrive.
- pH: 6.0-7.5. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral water conditions.
- Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water. They prefer lower hardness levels but can adapt to various conditions.
- Filtration: High-quality filtration is crucial. Use a filter that provides gentle water flow and maintain excellent water quality, as Discus Cichlids are sensitive to poor water conditions.
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Tank Setup:
- Substrate: Fine gravel or sand is suitable. Ensure the substrate is smooth to avoid damaging their delicate fins.
- Aquascaping: Provide a well-planted tank with plenty of open swimming space. Include some hiding spots and driftwood to create a natural and secure environment.
- Lighting: Moderate lighting is sufficient. They do well with soft, diffuse light that mimics their natural habitat.
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Diet:
- Primary Food: Omnivorous; feed a varied diet including high-quality cichlid pellets, frozen or live foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.
- Supplemental Food: Offer occasional treats such as blanched vegetables (e.g., peas) and spirulina to provide dietary variety.
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Behavioral Considerations:
- Compatibility: Best kept with other peaceful, non-aggressive fish. Avoid aggressive or fin-nipping species. Suitable tank mates include other large, peaceful fish or similar cichlids.
- Social Behavior: Discus Cichlids are best kept in groups of at least 5-6 individuals to ensure they feel secure and to reduce stress. Provide plenty of hiding spots and visual barriers to help manage their territorial instincts.
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Tank Maintenance:
- Water Changes: Perform regular water changes (25-30% weekly) to maintain high water quality and reduce toxin buildup.
- Cleaning: Regularly clean the tank and remove any uneaten food or waste. Ensure the filtration system is operating efficiently.
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Health Care:
- Observation: Monitor for signs of stress or illness, such as changes in behavior, loss of appetite, or visible symptoms like discoloration or unusual spots.
- Treatment: Maintain optimal water conditions and consult an aquarium professional if health issues arise. Address any signs of disease or stress promptly to ensure the health of your Discus Cichlids.