Description

Red Rafflesia Discus Fish (Symphysodon aequifasciatus)

📌 Basic Info

• Scientific Name: Symphysodon aequifasciatus

• Common Names: Red Rafflesia Discus, Rafflesia Red Discus, Red Leopard Rafflesia

• Family: Cichlidae (Cichlid Family)

• Order: Cichliformes

• Origin: Captive-bred hybrid, selectively developed in Southeast Asia from Turquoise and Pigeon Blood strains. Known for its striking red color and intricate patterning reminiscent of the Rafflesia flower.

• 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 – 8 dGH

• TDS: 80 – 150 ppm

🐟 Characteristics

• Body: Round, laterally compressed with a smooth body contour typical of discus fish.

• Coloration: Deep red to crimson base with delicate white or golden web-like lines spreading across the body and fins, creating a floral mosaic effect.

• Fins: Slightly transparent, edged with red hue and fine lace-like detailing.

• Eyes: Bright orange to red, complementing the intense body coloration.

• Behavior: Peaceful, slow-moving, and suitable for community aquariums.

• Nature: Elegant and resilient when kept in stable conditions; ideal for decorative or show aquariums.

• Special Feature: Named after the Rafflesia flower, this discus is admired for its radiant red tone and petal-like pattern, symbolizing luxury and beauty in ornamental aquaculture.

🍽️ Food

• Type: Omnivorous

• Diet: High-quality discus granules, beef heart mix, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, and color-enhancing flakes.

• Feeding Frequency: 2–3 small meals daily.

• Tip: Supplement with carotenoid-rich foods (like astaxanthin) to maintain its vivid red hue.

🛠️ Tank Setup & Maintenance

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

• Filtration: Gentle biological filtration; maintain crystal-clear water.

• Substrate: Fine sand or bare-bottom for easy cleaning and color visibility.

• Decor: Driftwood and live plants such as Amazon Swords, Vallisneria, and Anubias.

• Lighting: Moderate to soft — highlights the glowing red color.

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

👥 Social Behavior

• Group Size: Keep in groups of 5 or more.

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

• Avoid: Aggressive or fin-nipping species.

• Compatibility: Excellent when mixed with other calm discus strains.

✅ Do’s
• Maintain stable warm, soft water.
• Feed a balanced protein-rich and color-boosting diet.
• Keep in groups to reduce stress.
• Provide hiding spaces and soft lighting.

❌ Don’ts
• Avoid sudden pH or temperature shifts.
• Do not overfeed — causes water fouling.
• Avoid strong water flow or bright lighting.

⭐ Quick Tips
The Red Rafflesia Discus Fish is a luxury-grade ornamental strain, prized for its deep red body and intricate flower-like patterning. Its vibrant color and graceful swimming make it a show-stopper in planted discus tanks, ideal for hobbyists seeking a bold centerpiece with refined elegance.