Santarem Discus

Santarem Discus

The Santarem Discus (*Symphysodon aequifasciatus*) is a captivating variety of discus fish, known for its unique coloration and patterns. Originating from the Santarem region in Brazil, this strain is prized for its vibrant hues and distinct appearance, making it a popular choice among aquarists.

Physical Characteristics:

• Size: Santarem Discus typically grow to about 15-20 cm (6-8 inches) in diameter.
• Coloration:
  • Body: The body features a blend of vibrant colours, often showcasing shades of blue, green, and red, with intricate patterns that may change as they mature.
  • Fins: Their fins are generally transparent or lightly tinted, enhancing the overall beauty of the fish.
  • Shape: Santarem Discus have a circular body shape typical of the species, which contributes to their elegant appearance.

Behaviour:

• Temperament: Santarem Discus are generally peaceful but may display territorial behaviour during breeding. They do best in groups to promote natural behaviours.
• Activity Level: They are active swimmers, often seen exploring their environment and interacting with their tank mates.
• Community Behaviour: They prefer to be kept in groups of at least 5-6 individuals to reduce stress and promote social interaction.

Aquarium Care:

• Tank Size: A minimum tank size of 190 litres (50 gallons) is recommended for a small group of Santarem Discus.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: Santarem Discus thrive in warm water, with an ideal temperature range of 28°C to 31°C (82°F to 88°F).
  • pH: They prefer slightly acidic to neutral water, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5.
  • Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water, with a general hardness (GH) of 1-10 dGH, is ideal.
• Tank Setup:
  • Substrate and Decorations: A soft substrate is recommended, along with plenty of hiding spots created by plants and decorations. Live plants such as Amazon swords or Java ferns can enhance their environment.
  • Lighting: Moderate lighting is best for showcasing their vibrant colours while providing shaded areas for comfort.
  • Filtration: A strong filtration system is necessary to maintain water quality. Regular water changes (about 20% weekly) are essential to keep the tank clean and healthy.

Diet:

Santarem Discus are omnivorous and require a varied diet to maintain their health:

• Pellets: High-quality discus-specific pellets should form the staple of their diet.
• Live or Frozen Foods: Offer live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, and blackworms to provide essential protein and variety.
• Occasional Treats: Freeze-dried foods or high-quality flakes can be offered occasionally, but should not make up the main diet due to the risk of bloating.

Breeding:

Breeding Santarem Discus can be a rewarding experience:

• Breeding Setup: A separate breeding tank with shallow water (about 15-20 cm or 6-8 inches deep) is recommended. The water should be warm (around 28°C to 31°C or 82°F to 88°F) and slightly acidic.
• Spawning Behaviour: The male and female will clean a flat surface where the female will lay eggs. The male will fertilise the eggs and both parents will guard them.
• Fry Care: Once the fry are free-swimming, they can be fed with infusoria or newly hatched brine shrimp.

Special Considerations:

• Social Structure: Discus are social fish and do best in groups of at least 5-6 individuals to reduce stress and encourage natural behaviours.
• Water Quality: Maintaining excellent water quality is crucial for their health. Regular monitoring and maintenance are necessary to keep them thriving.