The lifespan of discus fish is influenced by various factors, with significant variations under different rearing conditions. Here’s a comprehensive overview:
Lifespan Range
Wild specimens: Their lifespan is generally shorter. While specific years aren’t clearly documented, they’re widely believed to live less than those in captivity.
Captive-bred individuals:
Average lifespan: 5–7 years. Some can reach 8–10 years, and a very small number have been recorded to live over 15 years.
Improved varieties: Individuals from hybridization or inbreeding may have shortened lifespans, typically 2–3 years.
Key Influencing Factors
Water quality management:
Maintaining stable water parameters (such as pH and ammonia levels) can significantly extend their lifespan. It’s recommended to keep the water temperature around 28°C.
Rearing environment:
A spacious, quiet setting reduces stress. Mimicking their native Amazon River basin environment is beneficial to their health.
Diet and disease prevention:
A balanced diet (e.g., live food, specialized feed) and regular quarantine can lower the risk of diseases.
Variety differences:
Varieties like the High-Body Red Cover and Red Brown Discus tend to live longer under good conditions, while artificially improved varieties (such as the White Butterfly Discus) may have shorter lifespans.
Summary: With scientific rearing (proper water quality, nutrition, and environment), discus fish can approach their theoretical maximum lifespan. Conversely, poor care may result in a lifespan of less than 3 years.