Red Snakeskin Discus

The red snakeskin discus (Symphysodon sp.) combines the dense, fine striping of the snakeskin lines with a red-orange ground colour, so the pattern reads as narrow broken lines running the length of the body instead of the broad streaks of a turquoise fish. Snakeskin fish typically carry that fine patterning across the head and well into the fins. Discus are cichlids of the warm, slow Amazon tributaries.

Aquarium care

• Tall tank with depth front to back.
• Warm, steady water at the upper end of the tropical range.
• Water quality is the single biggest factor; change water regularly and stock lightly.
• Group of five or more, or a bonded pair.
• Discus granules, frozen bloodworm and beefheart preparations.
• Fine detail shows best under subdued lighting against a plain background.

Suits a keeper who prefers intricate patterning to block colour. Calm, warmth-tolerant tankmates such as cardinal tetras and sterbai corydoras are appropriate; avoid fast mid-water feeders that clear the food before discus start.

Stock rotates with each shipment, and livestock is sold for local pickup at our Lethbridge store. Current fish are listed in the discus collection.