Description
Tiger Turquoise Discus (Symphysodon aequifasciatus)
📌 Basic Info
Scientific Name: Symphysodon aequifasciatus
Common Names: Tiger Turquoise Discus, Turquoise Striped Discus, Red Tiger Discus
Family: Cichlidae (Cichlid Family)
Order: Cichliformes
Origin: Captive-bred variety developed from selective breeding of Turquoise and Red Spotted Discus strains; originally derived from wild Amazon River populations.
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: Round, laterally compressed shape typical of discus, with wide dorsal and anal fins.
Coloration: Vibrant turquoise blue and red pattern resembling tiger stripes across the body. The red and blue contrast intensifies with maturity and good care.
Fins: Clear turquoise fins with red streaks and iridescent shimmer.
Eyes: Bright orange to red eyes enhance the bold body coloration.
Behavior: Peaceful, graceful swimmer; forms stable hierarchies within groups.
Nature: Hardy compared to some discus types but prefers clean, stable conditions.
Special Feature: Famous for its tiger-like striped pattern — a blend of blue and red that makes it one of the most dynamic and photogenic discus varieties.
🍽️ Food
Type: Omnivorous with protein preference
Diet: Beef heart mix, brine shrimp, bloodworms, discus pellets, and color-enhancing flakes.
Feeding Frequency: 2 – 3 times daily in small meals.
Tip: Include spirulina and astaxanthin-rich foods to intensify both red and turquoise hues.
🛠️ Maintenance
Tank Size: Minimum 200 liters (55 gallons) for a pair or 300 liters (75 gallons) for a group.
Filtration: Efficient biological filtration with gentle current; discus prefer calm water.
Substrate: Bare-bottom or smooth sand for hygiene and easy maintenance.
Decor: Driftwood, soft plants (like Amazon Sword and Java Fern), and shaded resting zones.
Lighting: Moderate lighting brings out the metallic turquoise shine.
Water Change: 30–40% every other day to maintain pristine quality.
👥 Social Behavior
Group Size: Best kept in groups of 5–6 to promote natural schooling.
Tank Mates: Compatible with peaceful species like cardinal tetras, rummy nose tetras, corydoras, and dwarf plecos.
Avoid: Aggressive cichlids or fin-nipping fish.
Compatibility Note: Ideal for discus-dedicated or soft-water community aquariums.
✅ Do’s
• Keep water soft, clean, and warm.
• Offer high-protein and color-enhancing foods.
• Maintain moderate lighting to highlight turquoise stripes.
• Provide hiding areas with driftwood and plants.
❌ Don’ts
• Don’t mix with aggressive or overly active fish.
• Don’t skip frequent water changes.
• Don’t use hard or alkaline water — color fades quickly.
⭐ Quick Tips
The Tiger Turquoise Discus is a stunning fusion of color and pattern — with striking red and turquoise “tiger stripes” that give it a wild, exotic look. It’s one of the most visually captivating discus varieties, perfect for aquarists who love bright, contrast-rich fish with elegant movement and regal form.
