Nhamundá Blue Face Heckel Discus (Symphysodon discus)

Long considered the most beautiful of all freshwater aquarium fish, the discus remains a popular fish for serious hobbyists. Regular, large water changes, a protein-rich varied diet, and warm water temperatures (80-86) will create ideal conditions for discus to thrive. Wild discus are more sensitive to water quality and are best kept by experienced hobbyists. They will do best in soft, slightly acidic water and may take weeks or even months to display their optimal colors in an aquarium but will reward patient aquarists with spectacular coloration and natural behaviors. Heckel discus are known as one of the most colorful of all wild discus forms. These specimens originate from the Rio Nhamundá in Brazil and are named for the vivid blue markings around the face as well as the typical heckel coloration of blue and contrasting red striations.