Blue Turquoise Discus (scientific name: Symphysodon sp.) catch the hearts of aquarists by the vivid combination of blue and red patterns/ striations on over the disc-shaped body, dorsal and anal fins, and on the gill. Such strain is known as being developed in US regions from several crossings of wild and tank raised blue and green Discus. Given the average large size of around 5 – 8 inches, Discus fish normally require a fairly big aquarium tank to dwell in. They are shoaling by nature, hence keeping Blue Turquoise Discus in groups (from 6 -7 specimens) is more preferable. The distinctive body also challenges the Discus-keepers’ skills in controlling water quality to meet the fish’s requirements. As Blue Turquoise Discus consume a large amount of food and dispose of comparable waste. Therefore, in addition to setting up a soft and slightly acidic water environment for the species, water change of 30% per week should be performed regularly. This ensures the waste is entirely removed and the water is kept hygiene. Mind that Discus fish are very sensitive to drastic changes in living conditions. Thus, to allow them to get accustomed to your tank soon, you should ask the fish store where you buy the fish for more information on their origin. This could help you get a closer step to the actual need of Discus fish as well as avoid any mistake while preparing their home aquarium. Although most serious hobbyists don’t let Blue Turquoise Discus live in a community tank, you could somehow realize it. However, you then need to pay close attention to diet time. As the fish are known for outcompeting other fish. Neon tetras, rummy-nose tetras, and ember tetras are the first come in the recommended list as they are beautiful yet pretty easy to care for. Other considerations could include gouramis, Bolivian rams, Pencil fish, and Sterbai Cory Catfish. Unfortunately for beginners, Discus fish are regarded as difficult in terms of care. Hence, they are not appropriate for the fishkeeper’s first try, despite their strong passion for the species. What You Can Expect From This Fish: Impressive vivid combination of blue and red patterns/ striations on over the disc-shaped body Difficult to care for Aggressive (particularly towards the same-species) RECOMMENDED TANK PARAMETERS: Temperature: 78° to 86°F (26° to 30°C) pH: 6.8 - 7.2 KH: 1 – 4 dKH Minimum tank size: 75 gallons for groups (highly recommended ratio is 1 individual per 10-gallon) CARE GUIDELINES: Diet: Discus fish are omnivores and prefer both plant matter and live food. Their favorite is bloodworms and can accept other types of food such as tropical fish flakes, mosquito larvae, brine shrimp, and shrimp pellets. Social behavior: Shoaling, aggressive (particularly towards the same-species) Origin: Amazon River Basin, tank-bred See more details about care guide for Discus fish here.
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