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.