Blue Snakeskin Discus
Blue Snakeskin Discus
Blue Snakeskin Discus (Symphysodon aequifasciatus) combines a blue base color with the snakeskin trait — a dense pattern of very fine, broken lines and tiny scales that gives the body a textured, almost woven look. Discus are native to the slow, warm, soft blackwater and clearwater rivers of the Amazon basin. Our discus are farm-raised, well-acclimated stock that adapt well to home aquariums.
⚠ Water Quality: Discus need warm, very clean water. Plan on large, frequent water changes (25–50% weekly or more) and stable temperature. Rapid swings in temperature or water chemistry are the most common cause of stress.
Discus are peaceful, social cichlids that do best in a group of 5 or more; kept singly or in pairs they often become shy and stop eating. A tall tank of at least 55 gallons with gentle flow, subdued lighting, and some driftwood or broad-leaved plants gives them security, and young fish grow fastest with a bare or lightly planted setup.
Good tankmates are calm, warm-water fish such as Cardinal and Rummynose Tetras, Corydoras (sterbai tolerate the heat best), Bristlenose plecos, and peaceful dwarf cichlids. Avoid fast, boisterous, or fin-nipping fish that outcompete discus at feeding time.
Feeding & Care Tip: Feed small meals 2–3 times a day. A quality discus granule or pellet makes a good staple, rotated with Hikari Frozen Bloodworms and Hikari Frozen Baby Brine Shrimp for color and condition. Remove uneaten food after a few minutes to protect water quality.
Care & Ideal Parameters
| Difficulty | Moderate to advanced |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Adult Size | 6–8 in (15–20 cm) |
| Group Size | 5+ |
| Minimum Tank Size | 55 gallons (tall) |
| Ideal Temperature | 82–86°F (28–30°C) |
| Ideal pH | 6.0–7.0 |
| Ideal GH | 1–8 dGH |
| Staple Food | Quality discus granules or pellets |
| Treat / Supplement | Hikari Frozen Bloodworms, Frozen Baby Brine Shrimp |
| Lifespan | 10+ years |
| Origin | Farm-raised (species native to the Amazon basin) |
| Notes | Frequent large water changes. Keep in groups of 5+. Warm water — choose heat-tolerant tankmates. Avoid boisterous tankmates. |
