Description
Red Valentine Discus Fish (Symphysodon aequifasciatus)
📌 Basic Info
Scientific Name: Symphysodon aequifasciatus
Common Names: Red Valentine Discus, Valentine Red Discus, Super Red Valentine Discus
Family: Cichlidae (Cichlid Family)
Order: Cichliformes
Origin: Captive-bred hybrid — selectively bred from Red Melon and Marlboro Red discus strains in Malaysia and Thailand.
Size: 6 – 8 inches (15 – 20 cm)
Lifespan: 10 – 15 years
Tank Zone: Middle
🌊 Water Parameters
Temperature: 28 – 31°C (82 – 88°F)
pH: 6.0 – 6.8
Hardness: 3 – 8 dGH
TDS: 100 – 200 ppm
🐟 Characteristics
Body: Round, flat, and perfectly shaped with symmetrical fins and a smooth profile.
Coloration: Striking deep scarlet to bright cherry red coloration covering the entire body and fins — one of the most intense red discus strains available.
Pattern: Usually solid red or faint gradient from head to tail; some individuals show a soft orange tint near the head region.
Fins: Matching red fins with translucent edges that blend seamlessly into the body color.
Eyes: Bright ruby-red eyes complement the overall red theme.
Behavior: Peaceful, elegant, and calm; thrives in stable, clean environments.
Special Feature: The Red Valentine is admired for its pure romantic red coloration, making it a premium show-grade discus often used for selective breeding of red varieties.
🍽️ Diet
Type: Omnivorous
Preferred Food: High-protein discus pellets, beef heart mix, bloodworms, and brine shrimp.
Feeding Frequency: 2–3 times daily in small portions.
Tip: Include foods rich in astaxanthin and carotenoids to maintain the deep red tone and enhance overall glow.
🛠️ Tank Setup & Maintenance
Tank Size: Minimum 250 liters (65 gallons) for a group of 5–6 adult discus.
Filtration: High-quality biological filtration with gentle flow; discus prefer calm water.
Substrate: Smooth sand or bare bottom for easy cleaning and hygiene.
Decor: Driftwood, large-leaved plants, and shaded areas to make them feel secure.
Lighting: Warm white or soft red lighting enhances the fish’s vivid red coloration.
Water Change: 30–40% every 2–3 days to maintain ideal conditions.
👥 Social Behavior
Group Size: Keep in groups of 5–6 to encourage natural behavior.
Tank Mates: Best with peaceful species such as cardinal tetras, rummy nose tetras, and corydoras.
Avoid: Aggressive or fin-nipping species like barbs or large cichlids.
Compatibility: Excellent contrast when paired with Snow White, Blue Diamond, or Golden varieties.
✅ Do’s
• Maintain soft, warm, and clean water.
• Use gentle lighting to highlight red coloration.
• Provide high-quality, color-enhancing food.
❌ Don’ts
• Avoid poor water quality — it dulls the red color.
• Don’t mix with hyperactive or large aggressive fish.
• Avoid strong currents or bright overhead lights.
⭐ Quick Tips
The Red Valentine Discus Fish is one of the most vibrant and romantic-looking discus varieties, cherished for its deep scarlet hue and elegant, smooth finish. Ideal for aquarists seeking a show-stopping centerpiece, it symbolizes passion, beauty, and refinement in every aquarium.
