The article in brief
This article details the prices of discus, the freshwater fish most popular with aquarists, and provides guidance for potential buyers. Here are the key points:
- The prices vary from €20 to €800 depending on variety, age and rarity
- La quality of breeding influences the cost and health of fish
- A adapted housing and quality food are essential
- Choose a reputable seller guarantees healthier discus
Ah, the discus! Those magnificent freshwater fish that light up our aquariums. I still remember the first time I saw a group of discus swimming gracefully in a large tank. It was love at first sight! Today, I'm going to talk to you about discus prices and guide you through your purchase. Fasten your seatbelts, we're diving in!
The different varieties of discus and their prices
Joint discussions: the economic choice
Let's start with common discus, perfect for beginners. These aquatic beauties belong to the Cichlidae family and are available from €20 for young specimens. I've seen beginners leave smiling with their first discus at that price! However, adults can fetch as much as €150, depending on size and quality.
Heckel's Discus: wild charm
Heckel discus, with their more natural look, are generally a little more expensive. Expect to pay between €40 and €200, depending on age and rarity. I remember one enthusiastic customer who saved up for months to buy a magnificent pair of Heckels. The joy in his eyes was worth all the gold in the world!
Breeding varieties: a rainbow of possibilities
Breeding varieties offer an impressive range of colours. Here is an overview of prices for some popular varieties:
- Turquoise discus: €30 to €150
- Discus pigeon blood: €50 to €200
- Leopard discus: €40 to €180
- Discus cobalt: €35 to €160
Don't forget that these prices can vary depending on the quality of the breeding and the reputation of the seller. Stendker discus, for example, are renowned for their robustness and ease of care, which may justify a slightly higher price.
Factors influencing discus prices
Size and age: juvenile to adult
Size and age play a crucial role in the price of a discus. Juveniles of 5-6 cm are generally the cheapest, while adults of 15-20 cm can fetch substantial sums. Here's a summary table:
| Size | Approximate age | Price range |
|---|---|---|
| 5-6 cm | 2-3 months | 20€ – 50€ |
| 10-12 cm | 6-12 months | 50€ – 150€ |
| 15-20 cm | 2-3 years (adult) | 150€ – 250€ |
Rarity and quality: the price of the exceptional
The rarity of a variety and the quality of its lineage can push prices skywards. I've already seen selected pairs sell for up to €800! That's the price of excellence, my friends. But rest assured, there are options to suit all budgets.
Farming conditions: welfare has a cost
Discus raised in optimal conditions cost more, but it's a worthwhile investment. These fish are more robust and adapt better to their new environment. Believe me, I've seen too many customers regret opting for the cheaper option without considering the quality of the breeding.
Buying advice for a healthy discus
Choose a reputable vendor
Don't skimp on the quality of the vendor. A good breeder or specialist shop will provide you with healthier fish and valuable advice. I have an anecdote on this subject: a customer bought discus at a low price from a dubious site. The result? Three weeks later, he rushed back to save his sick fish. The lesson? Better to pay a bit more for peace of mind.
Checking your health
Before you buy, take a close look at the fish. A healthy discus should be lively, with intact fins and bright colours. Beware of prices that are too low for mature fish, as they may conceal health problems.
Preparing the ideal home
Don't forget that the price of the discus is only part of the investment. Plan on an aquarium of at least 200 litres for 5 individuals, with water between 26°C and 30°C and a pH of 5 to 7. A good filtration system and regular water changes are essential. Allow around 30% of water changes per week to keep your discus in top form.
Food: a budget not to be neglected
Now let's talk about an aspect that is often underestimated: food. Your discus deserve quality food, rich in protein. I recommend feeding them three times a day. Here are some popular options:
- Special granules for discus: 15€ - 30€ / 250g
- Frozen food (artemia, bloodworms): 5€ - 10€ / 100g
- Vitamin supplements: €10 - €20 / bottle
Allow a monthly budget of around €20 to €40 for feeding your discus. It's a necessary investment for their health and longevity. Remember, these magnificent fish can live up to 15 years with the right care!
At the end of the day, the price of a discus is only part of the story. The important thing is to choose healthy fish, give them the right environment and feed them properly. With patience and love, you will see your discus flourish and colour your daily life. Don't hesitate to ask me any questions you may have. Happy diving into the captivating world of discus!
External sources :
wiki aquaculture
wiki fish farming
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