Red Marlboro Discus Care Guide – Vibrant Beauty for Advanced Aquariums

Introduction: A True Living Jewel

The Red Marlboro Discus is a striking freshwater fish known for its deep crimson coloration and graceful disc-shaped body. As a member of the Symphysodon genus, it belongs to the discus family—considered the “King of the Aquarium” for good reason.

Bred selectively for vibrant red tones and a yellowish face, the Marlboro variant is both rare and iconic. But with beauty comes responsibility. Discus are known for their sensitive nature, making them ideal for experienced aquarists ready to commit to pristine tank conditions.

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🔍 Species Overview

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🏠 Ideal Tank Setup

🧱 Tank Size

• Minimum for group (5–6 discus): 55–75 gallons

• Ideal for adults: 75–100+ gallons

Discus are schooling cichlids. Keeping them in small numbers leads to stress and aggression. A group of 6+ is best to distribute social tension.

🪴 Aquascape

• Sand or fine gravel substrate

• Live plants (Amazon swords, Vallisneria, Java fern)

• Driftwood and rocks for structure

• Open swimming zones in the center

Discus prefer low-flow, dimly lit environments—mimicking their Amazonian roots.

🌊 Filtration & Maintenance

• Low to moderate flow (gentle return from canister or sponge filter)

• Weekly water changes: 40–60%

• Stable temperature control is critical (use heater and thermometer)

Discus are highly sensitive to ammonia, nitrite, and unstable water chemistry. Consistency is everything.

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💧 Water Parameters

Use RO water or mix RO with tap to hit softness targets. Stability > perfection.

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🍽️ Diet & Feeding

Red Marlboro Discus need a high-protein, varied diet for growth, color, and health.

✅ Best Foods:

• High-quality beef heart mixes

• Frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp

• Discus-specific pellets (e.g. Northfin, Hikari)

• Freeze-dried blackworms

• Color-enhancing flakes (supplemental only)

🕒 Feed 2–3 times daily in small amounts. Remove leftovers to avoid fouling water.

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🧠 Behavior & Temperament

• Peaceful and calm, but hierarchical

• Thrive in groups with a defined pecking order

• Can be shy in new environments

• Recognize owners and will feed from hand

Pairing with the wrong tank mates or overexposure to stress can lead to clamped fins, hiding, or disease.

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👫 Compatible Tank Mates

Discus do well in peaceful community setups—but only with heat-tolerant, non-aggressive fish.

✅ Good Tank Mates:

• Cardinal Tetras

• Rummynose Tetras

• Sterbai Corydoras

• Apistogramma (selective)

• Ram Cichlids

• Otocinclus Catfish

• Plecos (small, peaceful like Bristlenose)

❌ Avoid:

• Fast or aggressive fish (e.g., barbs, large cichlids)

• Fin-nippers

• Coldwater species (temperatures are too high)

Always quarantine tank mates first to prevent introducing parasites to sensitive discus.

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🧬 Breeding the Red Marlboro Discus

• Pairing happens naturally in groups—mature pairs will form

• Spawning occurs on vertical surfaces like leaves, cones, or glass

• Fry feed off parent’s mucus in early stages

• Water must be ultra-clean and slightly acidic (pH ~6.0)

• Feed fry newly hatched brine shrimp

Breeding Marlboros successfully requires a dedicated tank, strict water maintenance, and careful observation.

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🌟 Pro Tip: Discus Tankmates by Layer

This layered approach reduces crowding and competition for food or space.

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💲 Why Buy Red Marlboro Discus from RobsAquatics.com?

• Vibrant, hand-selected specimens with true Marlboro coloration

• Quarantined and feeding well before shipping

• Shipped with Live Arrival Guarantee

• Ethically sourced from top-tier breeders

• Expert support for discus care and tank setup

Our discus aren’t just beautiful — they’re healthy, acclimated, and ready to thrive.

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🧠 Final Thoughts

The Red Marlboro Discus is a centerpiece fish that rewards patience and care. With their vivid reds, calm nature, and elegant swimming, they offer a visual experience few fish can match.

Best for:

• Dedicated planted aquariums

• Hobbyists seeking a “wet pet” experience

• Aquascapes designed for South American species

• Experienced fishkeepers who value quality and detail

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📢 Call to Action

👉 Order your Red Marlboro Discus now from RobsAquatics.com and elevate your aquarium with one of the most iconic freshwater species in the world.