Description
Malaysian White Face Super Red Discus Fish (Symphysodon aequifasciatus)
📌 Basic Info
Scientific Name: Symphysodon aequifasciatus
Common Names: Malaysian White Face Super Red Discus, White Face Red Discus, Super Red White Face Discus
Family: Cichlidae (Cichlid Family)
Order: Cichliformes
Origin: Selectively bred in Malaysia, developed from high-grade Red Cover and Pigeon Blood strains to enhance body redness and achieve a distinct white facial contrast.
Size: 7 – 8 inches (18 – 20 cm)
Lifespan: 10 – 15 years
Tank Zone: Middle
🌊 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, thick-bodied discus with a smooth, symmetrical profile.
Coloration: Intense super red body with a contrasting white or pale cream face, giving a stunning bi-tone effect unique to Malaysian strains.
Fins: Bright red with a subtle orange gradient near the edges; dorsal and anal fins have a fine, transparent margin.
Eyes: Deep red to orange-red eyes, matching the rich body tone.
Behavior: Calm, regal, and confident swimmer — ideal for display aquariums.
Nature: Peaceful yet slightly territorial during breeding.
Special Feature: The white facial mask paired with a brilliant full-body red makes this variety one of the most visually striking and sought-after among premium discus collectors.
🍽️ Food
Type: Omnivorous
Diet: Discus pellets, beef heart mix, bloodworms, brine shrimp, and high-protein granules.
Feeding Frequency: 2–3 times daily in small portions.
Tip: Feed carotenoid-rich foods (astaxanthin or krill) to intensify red pigmentation.
🛠️ Tank Setup & Maintenance
Tank Size: Minimum 250 liters (65 gallons) for a group.
Filtration: Gentle flow with biological filtration for clear, stable water.
Substrate: Bare-bottom or fine light-colored sand enhances contrast.
Decor: Driftwood and green plants (Amazon Swords, Java Ferns) complement the red coloration beautifully.
Lighting: Moderate, warm-spectrum lighting enhances red tones and white facial glow.
Water Change: 30–40% daily or every other day to maintain pristine water conditions.
👥 Social Behavior
Group Size: Best kept in groups of 5–6.
Tank Mates: Peaceful species — cardinal tetras, rummy nose tetras, corydoras, and small plecos.
Avoid: Aggressive or fin-nipping fish.
Compatibility: Pairs well with other gentle discus varieties.
✅ Do’s
• Keep water temperature and pH stable.
• Feed a high-protein, color-enhancing diet.
• Maintain excellent water clarity.
• Use a dim or soft background to make the red color stand out.
❌ Don’ts
• Don’t overcrowd or mix with fast-moving species.
• Avoid strong currents — discus prefer calm water.
• Don’t expose to sudden light or temperature changes.
⭐ Quick Tips
The Malaysian White Face Super Red Discus Fish is a show-grade ornamental variety, admired for its stunning red body and clean white face — a hallmark of Malaysian selective breeding. Perfect for aquarists seeking a luxury centerpiece fish with unmatched visual appeal, color depth, and elegant personality.
