Description

Blue Diamond Discus (Symphysodon aequifasciatus)

📌 Basic Info

• Scientific Name: Symphysodon aequifasciatus

• Common Names: Blue Diamond Discus, Solid Blue Discus

• Family: Cichlidae (Cichlid Family)

• Order: Cichliformes

• Origin: Captive-bred variety — selectively developed from Amazon River discus species (Symphysodon spp.)

• Size: Up to 7–8 inches (18–20 cm)

• Lifespan: 10 – 15 years

• Tank Zone: Mid to upper water levels

🌊 Water Parameters

• TDS: 100 – 200 ppm

• pH: 6.0 – 7.0

• Temperature: 28 – 31°C (82 – 88°F)

• Hardness: 3 – 10 dGH

🐟 Characteristics

• Body: Perfectly round, laterally compressed, and graceful in movement.

• Coloration: Vibrant metallic blue throughout the body, with no visible bars or patterns. Some individuals show a light turquoise glow.

• Fins: Matching blue or slightly translucent with a shimmering effect.

• Behavior: Peaceful, intelligent, and responsive to the aquarist.

• Nature: Shy but social; thrives in stable, calm tank conditions.

• Special Feature: Known for its uniform “diamond blue” sheen and smooth solid color — one of the most elegant and sought-after discus strains.

🍽️ Food

• Type: Carnivorous (protein-rich diet)

• Diet: Beef heart mix, bloodworms, brine shrimp, high-quality discus pellets, and flakes.

• Feeding Frequency: 2 – 3 times daily in small, clean portions.

• Tip: Supplement with vitamin-enriched and carotenoid foods for strong coloration and vitality.

🛠️ Maintenance

• Tank Size: Minimum 200 liters (55 gallons) for a pair; larger for groups.

• Filtration: Efficient biological filtration with gentle water flow.

• Substrate: Bare-bottom or fine sand for easy cleaning.

• Decor: Driftwood, smooth stones, and broad-leaved plants like Amazon Sword or Anubias.

• Lighting: Moderate to soft; enhances the metallic blue tone.

• Water Change: 30–40% daily or alternate days to maintain clarity and health.

👥 Social Behavior

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

• Tank Mates: Ideal with peaceful species such as cardinal tetras, rummy nose tetras, corydoras, and small plecos.

• Avoid: Aggressive or fast-moving species that may stress them.

• Compatibility Note: Best suited for dedicated discus tanks or calm, warm community setups.

✅ Do’s

• Maintain warm, soft, and clean water conditions.

• Provide a variety of high-protein foods.

• Keep in groups for natural behavior.

• Use soft lighting to enhance the blue shine.

❌ Don’ts

• Don’t keep with fin-nippers or aggressive fish.

• Don’t allow temperature or pH fluctuations.

• Don’t overfeed or neglect cleaning; water purity is key.

⭐ Quick Tips
The Blue Diamond Discus is one of the most striking solid-color discus varieties. Its flawless metallic blue body and calm swimming behavior make it a true showpiece in any aquarium. Ideal for experienced aquarists who appreciate elegance, purity, and tranquility in their display tanks.