Red discus facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Red discus |
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The red discus or Heckel discus (scientific name: Symphysodon discus) is a special type of cichlid fish. It lives in the Amazon Basin in South America. You can find it in rivers like the lower Rio Negro, upper Uatumã, Nhamundá, Trombetas, and Abacaxis.
This fish loves to live in "blackwater" rivers. These rivers have water that looks dark, like tea, because of plants breaking down. The water is very warm, usually between 26 and 32 degrees Celsius (79–90°F). It also has a very low pH level, which means it's quite acidic, like lemon juice!
The red discus can grow to about 20 centimeters (8 inches) long. Many people also keep this beautiful fish in their home aquariums.
Amazing Discus Parents
One of the most amazing things about the red discus fish is how they care for their babies. When the tiny baby fish, called "fry," hatch, they don't eat regular food right away. Instead, they feed on a special mucus. This mucus is a slimy, nutritious substance that their parents' skin produces.
The baby fish actually nibble on their parents' sides to get this food! It's a very unique way for fish parents to feed their young. This special feeding method helps the baby discus grow strong and healthy in their first few weeks of life.
See also
In Spanish: Symphysodon discus para niños
