(F31) Cobalt Blue Discus Fish (Symphysodon aequifasciatus)

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Description

Description

Cobalt Blue Discus Fish (Symphysodon aequifasciatus)

📌 Basic Info

  • Scientific Name: Symphysodon aequifasciatus

  • Common Names: Cobalt Blue Discus, Electric Blue Discus, Neon Blue Discus

  • Family: Cichlidae (Cichlid Family)

  • Order: Cichliformes

  • Origin: Selectively bred hybrid of Blue Turquoise and Brilliant Blue discus strains; developed in Southeast Asia for its intense metallic blue color.

  • 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 – 10 dGH

  • TDS: 80 – 200 ppm

🐟 Characteristics

  • Body: Perfectly round, laterally compressed discus body with long dorsal and anal fins.

  • Coloration: Intense solid cobalt blue to metallic turquoise sheen over the entire body and fins. Some individuals may show faint horizontal streaks or radiating shine near the head and gill plates.

  • Fins: Transparent blue fins with reflective iridescence under aquarium light.

  • Eyes: Deep red to orange-red, contrasting beautifully with the bright blue body.

  • Behavior: Gentle and graceful, moves slowly and confidently through the tank.

  • Nature: Peaceful, schooling species that thrive in calm environments.

  • Special Feature: Known for its vivid, uniform blue coloration without heavy markings — one of the purest blue discus varieties available.

🍽️ Food

  • Type: Omnivorous (protein-focused diet)

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

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

  • Tip: Feed carotenoid and spirulina-based foods occasionally to maintain brightness and body tone.

🛠️ Tank Setup & Maintenance

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

  • Filtration: Strong biological filtration with gentle water flow.

  • Substrate: Bare-bottom or fine light sand to highlight body color.

  • Decor: Driftwood, large-leaf plants (Anubias, Amazon Swords), and shaded resting zones.

  • Lighting: Moderate to slightly dim — enhances the metallic blue glow.

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

👥 Social Behavior

  • Group Size: Keep in groups of 5–6 to promote natural behavior.

  • Tank Mates: Peaceful fish like cardinal tetras, rummy nose tetras, corydoras, and small plecos.

  • Avoid: Aggressive or fin-nipping species.

  • Compatibility: Excellent with other calm discus strains or slow-moving community fish.

Do’s
• Keep warm, stable water conditions.
• Use gentle lighting to bring out blue tones.
• Offer a varied, protein-rich diet.
• Maintain pristine water quality through regular changes.

Don’ts
• Avoid mixing with fast or aggressive fish.
• Don’t expose to sudden temperature or pH changes.
• Avoid overfeeding or strong currents in the tank.

Quick Tips
The Cobalt Blue Discus is one of the most striking and elegant discus varieties, admired for its intense metallic blue body and calm demeanor. Perfect for centerpiece display tanks, it symbolizes purity, peace, and sophistication — a must-have for serious discus enthusiasts and collectors.