Description

Golden Rafflesia Discus Fish (Symphysodon aequifasciatus)

📌 Basic Info

• Scientific Name: Symphysodon aequifasciatus

• Common Names: Golden Rafflesia Discus, Rafflesia Golden Discus, Yellow Rafflesia Discus

• Family: Cichlidae (Cichlid Family)

• Order: Cichliformes

• Origin: Captive-bred hybrid developed from Red Rafflesia and Golden Yellow strains; inspired by the vibrant patterns of the Rafflesia flower. Bred primarily in Southeast Asia.

• Size: 7 – 8 inches (18 – 20 cm)

• Lifespan: 10 – 15 years

• Tank Zone: Middle region

🌊 Water Parameters

• Temperature: 28 – 31°C (82 – 88°F)

• pH: 6.0 – 7.0

• Hardness: 3 – 10 dGH

• TDS: 80 – 200 ppm

🐟 Characteristics

• Body: Classic discus round shape with smooth contour and extended dorsal and anal fins.

• Coloration: Stunning golden-yellow base color with intricate red and orange marbling across the body — resembling flower petals. The intensity of red varies depending on genetics and diet.

• Fins: Yellow-tinted fins with a soft red glow near the edges.

• Eyes: Deep red to bright orange, adding a sharp contrast to the golden hue.

• Behavior: Graceful swimmer, peaceful and confident when kept in stable, calm environments.

• Nature: Social and non-aggressive; thrives in warm, clean, and slightly acidic water.

• Special Feature: The “Rafflesia” pattern — a beautiful red marbling resembling the iconic flower — gives this discus a luxurious and artistic appearance.

🍽️ Food

• Type: Omnivorous (high protein requirement)

• Diet: Beef heart mix, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, high-quality discus pellets, and color-enhancing flakes.

• Feeding Frequency: 2 – 3 small meals daily.

• Tip: Supplement with carotenoid-rich foods (like spirulina or astaxanthin) to intensify red tones and maintain the golden sheen.

🛠️ Tank Setup & Maintenance

• Tank Size: Minimum 250 liters (65 gallons) for a group.

• Filtration: Gentle but powerful biological filtration; discus prefer soft flow.

• Substrate: Bare-bottom or fine sand for easy cleaning.

• Decor: Driftwood, live plants (Amazon Sword, Anubias), and shaded hiding areas.

• Lighting: Soft, warm light enhances the yellow and red coloration beautifully.

• Water Change: 30–40% daily or alternate days for best health and color.

👥 Social Behavior

• Group Size: Keep in groups of 5–6 individuals.

• Tank Mates: Peaceful fish like cardinal tetras, rummy nose tetras, corydoras, and dwarf plecos.

• Avoid: Aggressive or fin-nipping fish species.

• Compatibility: Ideal for mixed discus tanks with similar temperament varieties.

✅ Do’s
• Maintain warm, stable, and clean water conditions.
• Feed a balanced, protein-rich and color-boosting diet.
• Provide shaded areas and soft lighting.
• Keep in groups for comfort and natural behavior.

❌ Don’ts
• Avoid bright or harsh lighting.
• Don’t keep with fast or aggressive tank mates.
• Avoid temperature or pH fluctuations.

⭐ Quick Tips
The Golden Rafflesia Discus is a luxury ornamental strain known for its radiant golden body and intricate red marbling. Its flower-inspired beauty and calm demeanor make it a centerpiece fish for elegant aquariums — symbolizing prosperity, grace, and artistic perfection in aquatic life.