Leopard

The Leopard Discus is a spectacular freshwater discus variety known for its intricate spotted and reticulated patterning. Typically displaying vibrant red to orange markings over a lighter body, each Leopard Discus develops its own unique pattern, making these fish impressive centrepieces for dedicated discus and premium tropical aquariums.

Discus are graceful, intelligent cichlids that thrive in warm, clean, stable water. Leopard Discus are best suited to aquarists who can provide excellent water quality, appropriate nutrition, and a peaceful environment. When maintained correctly, their distinctive leopard pattern and colouration become increasingly impressive as they mature.

• Common Name: Leopard Discus
• Scientific Name: Symphysodon spp.
• Family: Cichlidae
• Adult Size: Approximately 15–20 cm
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Care Level: Moderate to advanced
• Minimum Tank Size: Approximately 200 litres+, with larger aquariums recommended for groups
• Temperature: Approximately 28–30°C
• pH: Approximately 6.0–7.5
• Diet: Omnivorous
• Aquarium Level: Middle
• Social Behaviour: Best kept in compatible groups
• Water Quality: Warm, clean and extremely stable water essential
• Filtration: High-quality biological and mechanical filtration recommended

Feeding

Provide a varied, high-quality diet consisting of premium discus pellets or granules supplemented with suitable frozen foods such as brine shrimp, mysis, bloodworms, and other appropriately sized foods.

Juvenile discus benefit from several smaller meals throughout the day to support healthy development, while adults can generally be fed fewer meals. Avoid overfeeding and remove uneaten food promptly to maintain excellent water quality.

A nutritious and varied diet helps support strong growth, body condition, immune health, and vibrant Leopard patterning.

Aquarium Care

Leopard Discus require excellent water quality and stable parameters. Perform regular partial water changes and maintain effective filtration while avoiding excessively strong currents.

Provide a spacious aquarium with plenty of vertical swimming room. Plants, driftwood, and other natural features can be incorporated to provide shelter, but sufficient open swimming space should always be maintained.

Discus are social fish and generally perform best in appropriately sized groups unless keeping an established breeding pair. Tank mates should be peaceful species capable of thriving at the higher temperatures preferred by discus. Avoid aggressive fish, fin-nippers, and highly competitive feeders.

Colour & Pattern

Leopard Discus are selected for their distinctive spotted and reticulated markings. Pattern density, base colour, red or orange intensity, and overall appearance can vary considerably between individual fish.

Juvenile fish may continue developing their colour and pattern as they mature. Genetics, diet, water quality, lighting, age, and environmental conditions can all influence their final appearance.

Shipping

• Australia-wide shipping available where permitted
• Discus are carefully packed for safe transport
• Local pickup available by appointment from Fins 'N' Feathers
• Shipping availability may depend on destination, weather conditions, fish size, and applicable biosecurity restrictions

Live Arrival

Please inspect livestock immediately upon arrival. If there is an issue with your order, contact us as soon as possible in accordance with our live arrival policy and provide clear photos of the fish in its unopened transport bag where applicable.

Actual size, colour intensity, spotting, pattern, and body appearance may vary between individual fish due to age, genetics, stress, and environmental conditions.