Heckel discus
Symphysodon heckelii
FishFreshwater
The Heckel discus is one of the most iconic discus species. It is distinguished by five dark vertical bars on a blue-green body. It lives in schools in acidic blackwaters. It is a very sensitive fish requiring perfectly clean and stable water.
Recommended parameters
| Parameter | Recommended range |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 28–30 |
| pH | 5–6 |
| GH | 1–3 |
| KH | 0–1 |
| NO₃ | ≤ 10 |
| PO₄ | ≤ 0.5 |
Care
Difficulty5/5
Dietcarnivore
Min. tank200 L
Min. group6
Adult size20 cm
Lifespan10 ans
Temperamentpeaceful
Care notes
Tank of at least 200L, with bare bottom or sparse planting, roots and frequent water changes. Very soft water (GH < 3, KH < 1), pH 5.0-6.0, temperature 28-30°C. Rich varied diet: beef heart, brine shrimp, worms. Keep in groups of at least 6. Avoid stressful tankmates.