Marlboro Red Discus

The Marlboro Red Discus is a pillar of the domestic discus trade, renowned for clean, solid scarlet-red body pigmentation across the entire disc. Originally developed in the early 1990s alongside Pigeon Blood strains, the Marlboro Red has remained consistently popular because of its striking, uncomplicated beauty.

Solid colour maintenance requires a diet heavy in astaxanthin and carotenoids, combined with soft, warm, acidic water. The name 'Marlboro' refers to the rich, deep red reminiscent of a red Marlboro packet — vivid without ornamentation.

Marlboro Reds are hardy relative to many domestic strains and make an excellent entry point for hobbyists new to discus. They breed reliably and have been used extensively as a parent line in developing newer red-based strains including the Red Dragon and Red Melon.

Water: 28-31°C, pH 5.5-7.0, soft to moderately soft (1-8 dGH), KH 0-4. Tank: Minimum 250 L, dark substrate, moderate lighting, driftwood for security and natural feel. Feeding: Astaxanthin-enriched discus pellets, frozen bloodworm, beefheart, colour-enhancing flakes. Breeding: Among the more reliably breeding domestic strains; pairs readily on ceramic cone or vertical slate. Compatibility: Excellent community discus; pairs with blue and turquoise strains for a vivid mixed display.