Discus fish are native to the Amazon River basin in South America. They were first discovered in the mid-19th century by a German explorer named Johann Natterer. Natterer collected several specimens of the fish and sent them back to Europe, where they quickly became popular among aquarium enthusiasts. However, it wasn’t until the 1930s that discus fish became widely available in the aquarium trade.
At that time, a German breeder named Eduard Schmidt-Focke began breeding discus fish in captivity. He developed new techniques for breeding and raising the fish, which helped to make them more accessible to hobbyists around the world. Today, discus fish are one of the most popular species of fish in the aquarium hobby. They are known for their unique personalities and complex social behaviors. They require specific water conditions and a carefully controlled environment to thrive, which can make them a bit challenging to keep. However, many aquarists find the rewards of keeping discus fish well worth the effort. In addition to their popularity among aquarium enthusiasts, discus fish also play an important role in the culture of the indigenous peoples of the Amazon River basin. They are considered a source of food and are often used in traditional ceremonies and rituals.
