Description
Red Marlboro Discus (Symphysodon aequifasciatus)
📌 Basic Info
Scientific Name: Symphysodon aequifasciatus
Common Names: Red Marlboro Discus, Marlboro Red Discus, Solid Red Discus
Family: Cichlidae (Cichlid Family)
Order: Cichliformes
Origin: Captive-bred strain — developed through selective breeding of Pigeon Blood and Red Discus varieties, originating from wild Amazon River species.
Size: Up to 7–8 inches (18–20 cm) in captivity
Lifespan: 10 – 15 years
Tank Zone: Mid to upper 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 rounded discus body with broad dorsal and anal fins.
Coloration: Intense solid red to orange-red body with a clean, unpatterned appearance. The head area is often bright orange, blending smoothly into deep red across the body.
Fins: Red to orange-transparent fins that harmonize with the body tone.
Eyes: Bright red, enhancing its fiery appearance.
Behavior: Gentle and calm; interacts well in groups of its own kind.
Nature: Sensitive to sudden water changes but hardy when kept in stable, warm conditions.
Special Feature: One of the most iconic discus varieties, the Red Marlboro is known for its uniform red coloration — a hallmark of top-quality discus breeding.
🍽️ Food
Type: Carnivorous (protein-based diet)
Diet: Beef heart mix, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, discus granules, and color-enhancing flakes.
Feeding Frequency: 2 – 3 small meals daily.
Tip: Add foods rich in astaxanthin and spirulina to maintain and intensify the bright red tone.
🛠️ Maintenance
Tank Size: Minimum 200 liters (55 gallons) for a pair or 300 liters (75 gallons) for a group.
Filtration: Excellent biological and mechanical filtration; low flow preferred.
Substrate: Bare-bottom or soft fine sand for easier cleaning.
Decor: Driftwood, broad-leaf plants (like Anubias, Amazon Sword), and shaded hiding spaces.
Lighting: Moderate; highlights the red pigmentation beautifully.
Water Change: 30–40% daily or every alternate day for best color and health.
👥 Social Behavior
Group Size: Keep in groups of 5 or more for security and natural schooling.
Tank Mates: Ideal with calm species such as cardinal tetras, rummy nose tetras, corydoras, and dwarf plecos.
Avoid: Aggressive or overly active fish species.
Compatibility Note: Performs best in dedicated discus aquariums or peaceful, soft-water communities.
✅ Do’s
• Maintain soft, warm, and stable water.
• Provide a varied, protein-rich diet with natural color boosters.
• Keep lighting gentle to enhance the red tones.
• Ensure frequent water changes for consistent color and health.
❌ Don’ts
• Don’t expose to sudden pH or temperature changes.
• Don’t overcrowd the tank.
• Don’t house with fin-nippers or aggressive fish.
⭐ Quick Tips
The Red Marlboro Discus is a legendary strain prized for its pure, fiery red coloration and elegant form. A true centerpiece fish, it embodies beauty and simplicity — making it a top choice for both beginners and professional discus keepers who appreciate vivid, solid-colored show fish.
