Red Eye Discus (Symphysodon tarzoo)

Remarks:  While discus are a well known and beloved fish within the hobby, few know that there is more than one species of discus. Most presume that all discus are Symphysodon aequifasciata when there are actually three different recognized species. The red eye discus is a variant of one of the other two species, currently known under the scientific name of Symphysodon tarzoo. The identifying feature of S. tarzoo is the beautiful array of red spots present on the anal fin and body, a pattern that is absent in the other two members of the genus. Another unique aspect of the species is that they are only known to naturally be found upriver from the Purus arch between Manaus and Rio Bauana. An introduced population also exists within the Rio Nanay that fishermen often collect from.   Discus are often referred to as the king of aquarium fish. This nickname arose from the sheer beauty of these fish along with their reputation for being difficult to care for making those who keep them successfully revered within the hobby. It being difficult to keep discus was an opinion developed when majority of specimens available were wild caught. With most now being captive bred and even line bred to produce many different color variants such as turquoise and pigeon blood, they are much more hardy. That being said, discus still require very clean, soft, acidic water with little to no nitrates and warm temperatures.   These peaceful cichlids tend to be timid, especially when it comes to feeding, so they shouldn't be kept with overly boisterous or aggressive fish. Typically their mouths are very small, but once they reach adulthood they are capable of swallowing very tiny fish so this should also be considered when choosing tankmates. If attempting to breed discus, lots of vertical surfaces should be provided for them to lay their eggs on and it should be noted they can become territorial when spawning. Once the fry hatch and are free-swimming, both parents show an incredible form of parental care in which they feed their fry by allowing them to eat their slime coat. This behavior is an amazing sight and makes breeding discus very enjoyable.