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Wild Marajó Brown Discus

Symphysodon aequifasciatus axelrodi (Marajó)

Also known as: Wild Marajó Brown Discus, Marajó Brown Discus

Origin: Wild-caught, Ilha de Marajó, Pará, Brazil

W

Water Parameters

Temperature2730 °C
15 °C35 °C
pH5.57
49
GH (Hardness)07 °dGH
0 °dGH30 °dGH
KH (Alkalinity)03 °dKH
0 °dKH20 °dKH

Quick Stats

Max Size
20 cm
Min Tank
300 L
Lifespan
10-15
Swimming Level
middle
Schooling
Yes (5–8+)
Diet
carnivore
Temperament
peaceful, hierarchical within group

About

The Wild Marajó Brown Discus inhabits the blackwater channels and flooded forest margins of Ilha de Marajó — a largely unexplored collecting locality that produces fish with a distinctively rich chestnut-to-mahogany base colour and deep crimson eye rings. Blue-green fin striping is sparse but present, particularly on the dorsal and caudal regions.

Marajó Brown Discus show a slightly broader body depth than upriver brown discus populations, possibly reflecting the more sheltered, food-rich estuarine habitat. Their natural exposure to tidal water variations may account for a marginally wider tolerance of fluctuating water parameters, though soft, warm conditions are still essential.

As a collecting locality, Marajó is significantly under-represented in the hobby, making these fish of genuine scientific and collector interest.

Care Guide

Water: 27-30°C, pH 5.5-7.0, soft (0-7 dGH), KH 0-3; tannin-stained water aids colour development. Tank: Minimum 300 L, blackwater estuary biotope, driftwood, leaf litter, moderate subdued lighting. Feeding: Frozen bloodworm, beefheart, artemia, high-protein carnivore pellets; feed 2 times daily. Breeding: Open spawner; biparental fry care; soft acidic water beneficial for spawning. Compatibility: Wild discus groupings; peaceful lower-Amazon tetras acceptable companions.

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