(F31) Red Alenquer Discus Fish (Symphysodon aequifasciatus)

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Description

Description

Red Alenquer Discus Fish (Symphysodon aequifasciatus)

📌 Basic Info

  • Scientific Name: Symphysodon aequifasciatus

  • Common Names: Red Alenquer Discus, Alenquer Red Discus, Wild Alenquer Discus

  • Family: Cichlidae (Cichlid Family)

  • Order: Cichliformes

  • Origin: Alenquer region, Amazon River Basin, Brazil — one of the most famous natural habitats for wild discus.

  • Size: 6 – 8 inches (15 – 20 cm) in aquariums; can grow up to 10 inches (25 cm) in the wild.

  • Lifespan: 10 – 15 years

  • Tank Zone: Middle

🌊 Water Parameters

  • Temperature: 28 – 31°C (82 – 88°F)

  • pH: 5.0 – 6.5 (soft and acidic)

  • Hardness: 1 – 6 dGH

  • TDS: 50 – 120 ppm

🐟 Characteristics

  • Body: Round, flat, and perfectly symmetrical discus shape typical of wild strains.

  • Coloration: Beautiful reddish-brown to deep red body, with blue iridescent lines on the face, fins, and edges.

  • Pattern: Vertical dark bars (especially the central 5th bar) — characteristic of wild Alenquer discus.

  • Fins: Fins often show turquoise-blue edging with subtle highlights.

  • Eyes: Deep red to orange-red, contrasting strongly against the reddish body.

  • Behavior: Peaceful, majestic, and slightly shy — appreciates calm surroundings.

  • Special Feature: Retains the natural wild discus look with rich earthy tones and shimmering highlights; a favorite among enthusiasts who love authentic Amazon-origin discus strains.

🍽️ Food

  • Type: Omnivorous (prefers protein-rich diet)

  • Diet: High-quality discus pellets, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, beef heart mix, and blackworms.

  • Feeding Frequency: 2–3 small meals per day.

  • Tip: Supplement with vitamin-enriched and color-enhancing foods to deepen red tones.

🛠️ Tank Setup & Maintenance

  • Tank Size: Minimum 300 liters (80 gallons) for adult group.

  • Filtration: Excellent biological filtration; gentle water flow simulating Amazon streams.

  • Substrate: Fine sand or bare-bottom with scattered driftwood and leaf litter.

  • Decor: Use driftwood, Amazon sword plants, and floating plants to create a shaded, natural setting.

  • Lighting: Low to moderate — too much light can make wild strains nervous.

  • Water Change: 30–40% daily or alternate days; maintain stable, soft, warm conditions.

👥 Social Behavior

  • Group Size: Best kept in groups of 5 or more.

  • Tank Mates: Cardinal tetras, rummy nose tetras, corydoras, hatchetfish, and peaceful dwarf cichlids.

  • Avoid: Aggressive or fin-nipping species.

  • Compatibility: Excellent with other wild or semi-wild discus strains.

Do’s
• Maintain soft, acidic, and clean water.
• Provide a calm, dimly lit aquarium.
• Feed with high-quality, protein-rich foods.
• Keep in small, stable groups.

Don’ts
• Avoid fluctuating pH or hard water.
• Don’t use strong lights or currents.
• Avoid aggressive tank mates or overcrowding.

Quick Tips
The Red Alenquer Discus Fish is one of the most iconic wild discus varieties, admired for its natural red-brown coloration, blue accents, and authentic Amazonian beauty. Perfect for hobbyists seeking a balance between wild elegance and peaceful temperament, it brings a touch of the Amazon right into your aquarium.