Turquoise Discus | Symphysodon aequifaciatus haraldi

Cichlids / South America / Turquoise Discus

Profile: Blue Discus, Turquoise Discus, Royal Blue Discus
Symphysodon aequifaciatus haraldi Synonyms: None
Physical description: The disc-shaped body has nine dark vertical bands which fade with age. The body color is yellowish-brown to light turquoise. The dorsal and anal fins are deep blue with a red iridescence. The head and upper parts are veined with turquoise markings.
Size/Length: To 6" (15 cm)
Similar species: Other Discus species- S. aequifaciatus aequifaciatus, S. aequifaciatus axelrodi, and S. discus
Habitat: South America; found in the Leticia and Benjamin Constant area, in the Purus River.
S: bottom, middle
Aquarium: The tank should be at least 40" (100 cm) long and 20" (50 cm) tall with a volume of 45 gallons (170 L). See the general description of discus for more requirements.
Water chemistry: pH 5-7 (6.5), 0-6 dH (3), 79-88°F (26-31°C)
Social behavior: A calm peaceful fish, see the general of discus for more information
Suggested companions: See Discus description.
FOOD: Live: insect larvae; mosquito larvae, bloodworms; aquatic insects; Back swimmers; flying insects; crustaceans; Daphnia, Cyclops , Brine Shrimp; carefully washed Tubifex worms; pellets; formulated Discus foods.
Sexual differences: The distinguishing of the male and female is difficult. Adult males may develop a small lump on their foreheads, but this difference is not always reliable. During the spawning season, the shape of the genital papillae serves as the best difference. It is round in female and pointed in males, although this difference is also difficult to detect.
Breeding techniques: Blue Discus breed like other discus species. See the general description of discus.
Breeding potential: 8. Breeding of the Blue Discus is, like all discus, considered difficult.
Remarks: There are many different color variations of the Blue Discus. "Royal Blue" Discus have distinct blue lines, while the "Red Royal Blue" variation has red and blue markings.
Difficulty of care: 7. A sensitive cichlid.