Red Dragon Discus

The Red Dragon Discus is a product of modern discus breeding artistry, combining the intense red pigmentation of Marlboro and Red Melon genetics with a dragon-scale overlay of iridescent highlights that shimmer across the body surface. The effect is of a living gemstone — deeply red yet subtly multi-tonal.

Maintaining the full intensity of the red-dragon colour palette requires warm, soft, acidic conditions and a diet rich in astaxanthin, carotenoids, and high-quality proteins. Under suboptimal conditions, the iridescent overlay dims and the red base fades to orange, so water quality and nutrition are paramount.

This strain is a favourite at discus shows and competitions, frequently placing highly in the 'fancy' and 'new strain' categories. A group of six in a dark-substrate, minimally decorated aquarium is truly spectacular.

Water: 28-31°C, pH 5.5-7.0, soft (1-8 dGH), KH 0-4; pristine conditions mandatory for full colour expression. Tank: Minimum 250 L, dark substrate and background, subdued lighting to maximise red-iridescent contrast. Feeding: Astaxanthin-rich discus pellets, beefheart, frozen bloodworm, colour-enhancing frozen foods. Breeding: Open spawner; dragon-scale pattern partially heritable; selective pairing required to maintain colour. Compatibility: Peaceful with other discus and small, gentle Amazon community species.