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.
