Freshwater

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Part II: Fish and How to Care for Them
Figure 8-10:
Discus are
gorgeous
and well
mannered.
Discus (Symphysodon varieties)
The discus (Figure 8-10) is the king of the cichlids, the Mona Lisa of the fish
world. This flat fish, which resembles a plastic throwing disk, has been commercially
bred to produce stunning colors. Not only are discus beautiful, they
are well behaved as well. Who could ask for more?
These fish are carnivorous and should be kept in schools of at least three to
five. They can be fed frozen brine shrimp, cichlid flakes, and insect larvae. They
will grow to over 5 inches in a home aquarium. Discus live in natural waters that
have a temperature between 78–84 degrees F. and a pH of about 4.5–6.0.
Discus water must be soft and acidic. Many hobbyists use RO units to mimic
its natural waters and combine this in a mix with tap water. However, you
must also add trace elements and minerals (available in liquid form at your
pet store) back to the water to make it suitable for your aquarium fish.
Discus can be very expensive, but are very popular and well worth the
investment.
Cyprinids
The cyprinids are a diverse family that includes barbs, danios, and rasboras.
Tiger barb (Barbus tetrazona)
The tiger barb (Figure 8-11) is an orange and black striped fish native to
Southeast Asia. This fish is omnivorous and swims in the middle and lower
sections of the tank. Tiger barb can become quite aggressive and should be
kept in a species tank or with fishes of similar size and temperament. Good
tankmates could include plecos, livebearers, barbs, rainbowfish, and loaches.