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Discus Fish
Discus Fish
Origin
South America
Habitat Size
Minimum 113 Litres
Water Type
Fresh Water
Water Temperature
27º-31ºC
Cost in India
₹500 - ₹1,000
Size
4.8 - 6 inches (Medium)
Diet
Omnivore
by Happy Pet TeamUpdated on 2 Dec 2025
Discus Fish Introduction
The Discus Fish (Symphysodon) is a round, flat-looking tropical freshwater fish with bright colors and interesting patterns. Their shape looks like a flying saucer, and aquarists often call them the “king” of aquarium fish because of their elegant look and vibrant hues. What makes them special is their calm, graceful swimming and the way they act together in groups, which many other fish don’t show as clearly.
Characteristics
Temperament
Aggressive
Friendly
Compatibility with other fishes
Not Friendly
Super Friendly
Habitat Size
Small
Large
Discus Fish Habitat Requirements
Initial Setup Cost
₹5,000 - ₹10,000
Water Temperature
27º -31ºC
Water Type
Fresh Water
PH Level
6 - 7
Discus Fish Tank Type
Essential Equipment
Aquarium tank
Water filter
Heater
Light
Substrate
Decor
Discus Fish Nutritional Guide
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹500 - ₹ 1,000
Diet Type
Health
Common Health Issues
Fin rot
White spot / ick
Fungus
Dropsy (swollen abdomen)
Columnaris (cotton wool-like growth on the skin)
Bacterial infections
Signs of good health
Active
Bright coloration
Good apetite
Undamaged fins
Signs of sickness
Loss of appetite
Lethargic behaviour
Tattered fins
Dull coloring
Swollen abdomen
Discus Fish are sensitive to changes in their water and in their environment, so it is very important to implement the best care practices. Let us look at some common health issues of Discus Fish and how to keep them healthy.
Prerequisites for a Fish
Adequate tank space
Cleanliness
Effort & commitment
Enriching Environment
Financial Capability
Written by
Happy Pet TeamAuthor
Team Happy Pet is a passionate collective of pet experts, enthusiasts, and advocates dedicated to sharing trusted and insightful content.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can a beginner keep Discus Fish?
Yes—but it’s more challenging than some easy starter fish. You’ll need to keep water very clean and stable, and have a good-sized tank.
How many Discus Fish do I need together?
They prefer groups, so having at least 5 or 6 of the same size helps them feel secure. Small numbers may lead to stress.
My Discus Fish is eating less—what should I check?
Check if the water temperature is at their range (28-30 °C), ensure food size is small enough, check for stress from tank mates or strong flow, and test water quality.
Can I keep Discus Fish with any other fish?
You can, but only with careful choice: other fish must tolerate the warm, soft, acidic water, and must not out‐eat or stress the Discus.
What is the Discus Fish's lifespan?
With proper care, Discus Fish can live 8 to 10 years, and some even reach up to 15 years in very good conditions.