Discus Fish

Discus Fish

Discus Fish
The Discus fish is a freshwater tropical fish that originates from the Amazon region in South America. Their natural habitat is fast flowing rivers and streams and they prefer acidic water conditions. They are commonly known as 'The King of the Aquarium' or 'The King of the Cichlids' due to their size and appearance.

Interesting Information about Discus Fish
The Discus gets its name from its body shape, it is circular in shape and laterally compressed. It is very similar in shape to the Angelfish but does not have an extended fin. They are large cichlids (can reach up to 25cm) and can be aggressive to other fish particularly when breeding but are generally a peaceful fish. The Discus fish is not an ideal choice for the beginner as they require excellent water conditions and frequent partial water changes. However, in the correct environment they can live for up to 10 years.

Facts about Fish Species - How do you identify the sex of a Discus Fish?
The males and females of many fish species have different colors or different shaped bodies. But there are also other fish species where there is no visible difference. Its sometimes tricky being an ichthyologist! It is almost impossible to tell the difference between male and female Discus fish, when breeding

Facts about Fish Species - Why are Discus Fish slimy?
Discus Fish secrete a type of mucus, or slime, from their skin. This slime provides protection against parasites and infections and helps the Discus Fish to move through the water faster. Some fish species also release toxins in their slime which ward off enemy attacks. The Discus fish relies on the parents slime to feed their young fry. It is vital that the parents are not removed from the tank or the young Discus fry will not survive.

Facts about Fish Species - Why do Discus Fish have gills?
Gills enable the Discus Fish to breathe. Gills consist of thin sheets of tissue containing blood vessels. As water passes over the gills oxygen is absorbed into the blood stream Carbon dioxide passes out into the water. The gills are protected by a large bony plate called an operculum. Some fish species however have lungs and breathe air.

Facts about Fish Species - Why do the Discus Fish have fins?
A fin is an external appendage or "limb" of a fish. Fins are used for directing, stabilizing, or propelling the different fish species in water. Numbers of fins vary between fish species, but there are usually seven. Each of the fins on a fish are designed to perform a specific function:

• Dorsal fins - The dorsal fin is located on the backs of fishes. The Discus Fish has Dorsal fins to lend stability in swimming.

• Ventral fins. The ventral fin is located on the pelvic area of fishes. The Discus Fish has Ventral fins to lend stability in swimming.

• Caudal fins. The Caudal fin is located on the tail area of fishes. The Discus Fish has Caudal fins to propel through the water.

• Pectoral fins. The Pectoral fin is located on the breast area of fishes. The Discus Fish has Pectoral fins to for locomotion and side to side movement

Interesting Facts and Information about Discus Fish