Long considered the most beautiful of all freshwater aquarium fish, the discus remains a popular fish for serious hobbyists. Regular, large water changes, a protein-rich varied diet, and warm water temperatures (78-84) will create ideal conditions for discus to thrive. Wild discus like the Red Spotted Green are  sensitive to water quality and are best kept by experienced hobbyists, however their reputation for being challenging isn’t entirely deserved. They will do best in soft, slightly acidic water and may take weeks or even months to display their optimal colors in an aquarium but will reward patient aquarists with spectacular coloration and natural behaviors. Discus are found in loose aggregations in the wild, and should be kept in groups of at least 5 in the aquarium (8-10 is ideal). The spectacular wild form from Peru’s Rio Nanay are known for their stunning iridescent green base color with exceptional specimens showing vivid red spots throughout their entire body.