Red Melon Discus (Symphysodon aequifasciatus)

Red Melon Discus (Symphysodon aequifasciatus) – A Fiery Elegance for Your Aquarium

The Red Melon Discus is a breathtaking freshwater fish that brings vivid color and graceful movement to any aquarium. Known for its bold red hues and smooth, rounded body, this variety of the Discus fish is a showstopper in aquascaping setups. Ideal for experienced aquarists, the Red Melon Discus thrives in a well-maintained and peaceful environment, making it a prized addition to display tanks.

Key Features:

• Scientific Name: Symphysodon aequifasciatus (Selective bred variety)
• Size: Grows up to 8 inches (20 cm) in diameter.
• Coloration: Vibrant red body with a clean, melon-like finish, often lacking vertical barring.
• Temperament: Peaceful; best kept in groups of five or more.
• Lifespan: 8–10 years with proper care.
• Habitat: Originates from slow-moving waters of the Amazon River Basin.

Ideal Aquarium Setup:

Creating the perfect environment for your Red Melon Discus requires careful planning:

• Tank Size: Minimum of 55 gallons for a small group; larger tanks are preferred for stability and swimming space.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 82–86°F
  • pH: 6.0–7.0
  • Hardness: Soft, with low mineral content (dGH of 1–8)
• Substrate: Fine sand or bare bottom for easy cleaning.
• Decorations: Driftwood, tall plants like Amazon swords, and open swimming spaces create a natural and appealing habitat.
• Filtration: Use a strong filtration system with gentle flow to maintain pristine water quality.

Benefits of Keeping a Red Melon Discus:

• Stunning Display: Their vibrant red coloration and elegant movement make them the focal point of any aquarium.
• Social Nature: Keeping them in groups allows for fascinating social behaviors and interactions.
• Rewarding Experience: While they require attentive care, their beauty and personality make the effort worthwhile.

Care Tips:

• Diet: Offer a balanced diet of high-quality Discus pellets, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, and beef heart. Ensure a variety of foods to maintain their vibrant colors.
• Tank Mates: Choose peaceful species like neon tetras, cardinal tetras, and corydoras catfish. Avoid fin-nippers or aggressive fish.
• Maintenance: Perform frequent water changes (20–30% weekly) and monitor water parameters closely to keep their environment stable.

Why Choose a Red Melon Discus?

The Red Melon Discus is perfect for aquarists looking to elevate their aquarium to a masterpiece. With its vivid colors, graceful demeanor, and unique appeal, this fish adds an unparalleled level of sophistication to any tank.

Introduce the fiery elegance of the Red Melon Discus to your aquarium today and enjoy the beauty and charm of this stunning freshwater species!