Blue Diamond Discus

Looks how to spot one

Fish scales

The Blue Diamond Discus has a flat, round, disc-shaped body that is compressed from side to side. Its most striking feature is a solid, iridescent blue colour that covers the whole body and fins, often with tiny white spots or markings. The exact shade of blue can change with the fish's mood and health, and the body is tall and oval with long, flowing fins.124

Personality what they are like

Generally peaceful and calm, but can become territorial during breeding. They are a schooling species that feels secure in groups, and they may show mild aggression or chase each other when establishing a hierarchy. They do best with other peaceful fish and should not be kept with boisterous tankmates.164

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Discus are not very active swimmers but need open space in the middle of the water column. They prefer calm water with gentle flow and appreciate hiding spots among plants and driftwood. A group of at least six is recommended to make them feel secure.62

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Requires advanced care with very clean, warm, soft, slightly acidic water. Regular large water changes (about 50% fortnightly) are essential. They are sensitive to ammonia and nitrates, so a well-cycled filter is a must. Avoid sudden changes in water chemistry.216

Home where they are happiest

Needs a spacious aquarium of at least 50 gallons (about 190 litres) for a small group, with larger tanks preferred. Water temperature should be 25-32°C (77-90°F) and pH 5.2-7.7, though they do best in slightly acidic water around pH 6.3-7.2. Provide soft, slightly acidic water with plenty of open swimming space and some hiding spots.326

Food basics what goes in the bowl

Carnivorous. Feed high-quality flake and pellet foods designed for discus, plus frozen or freeze-dried bloodworms, tubifex, brine shrimp, and a good beefheart mix. Offer small amounts several times a day, and only as much as they can eat in about two minutes.126

Company who they like around

Highly social and should be kept in groups of at least six. They form a clear hierarchy and feel safer in numbers. They are peaceful with other calm species but may become territorial when breeding. Not recommended for beginners due to their sensitive nature.612

The story where it all began

The Blue Diamond Discus is a selectively bred colour strain of the blue discus (Symphysodon aequifasciatus), a cichlid native to the Amazon River Basin. While the wild species has brownish or greenish wavy markings, the Blue Diamond was developed by breeders who selected for a solid, brilliant blue body with small white spots. This strain originated in Malaysia and is now popular in the aquarium trade. The species was first classified in 1840, and captive breeding began in the 1950s, with American breeders later refining the colour varieties. The Blue Diamond is distinguished from the plain species by its uniform blue colouration, which is not seen in wild fish.234

Recognised by the official bits

LiveAquaria

Selectively bred for brilliant blue colouration with small white markings.1

AquariumInfo.org

Result of selective breeding from wild specimens with favourable colour mutations.2