Juvenile Red Pigeon Blood Discus

The Juvenile Red Pigeon Blood Discus is a young pigeon blood domestic strain fish at 5–6 cm, already showing the early expression of the orange-red base colour and characteristic black pepper spotting that define the adult strain. At this stage the colour is modest, but the genetic potential for vivid pigeon blood pigmentation is already evident in the best specimens.

Pigeon blood juveniles are among the easier domestic discus strains to raise, as the genetic line carries slightly improved disease resistance and feeding response compared to some other domestic strains. They respond well to varied high-protein diets and grow quickly under good conditions.

Buyers who start with a group of juvenile pigeon blood discus enjoy the unique satisfaction of watching the full pigeon blood pattern develop over 4–6 months — the gradual intensification of the orange-red base and the emergence of the pepper spotting creating a new fish before their eyes.

Water: 28-31°C, pH 5.5-7.0, soft to moderately soft (1-10 dGH), KH 0-5; stable temperature critical. Tank: Minimum 200 L grow-out, sponge or canister filtration, bare bottom or fine sand for easy cleaning. Feeding: 4-5 daily feeds — beefheart paste, baby brine shrimp, finely chopped bloodworm, colour-enhancing pellets. Breeding: Pigeon blood is a reliable breeder; prepare ceramic cone or slate at 10 cm; first spawning typically at 12-15 cm. Compatibility: Juvenile group initially; add compatible peaceful species once fish reach adult proportions.