Is a Uaru, a poor man's discus?

[Mr Pleco]

Uarus are a great cichlid, keep in mind they are a cichlid. I had a trio I had to seperate once two paired off and laid egss .. A 125 was then too small for 3- 8" Uaru's.. I sold 2 off to keep peace and harmony. Last one passed a month or so ago at 12" , approx 5 years old(?)...........

 

[cchhcc]

I don't understand when people say discus are so delicate... maybe it because I'm so critical about my water quality. If you buy juvies just keep them in a bare bottom tank with plenty of cover and do around 50% wc a week depending on filtration. Once they are 4" they are as hardy as angels. They're cheap too if you find a local breeder.

Totally agree. Freshwater fishkeeping in the 21st century is so easy it's a joke!

 

[Cleanbio]

Uraus are nice fish and around here they go for more than many juvenile ca/sa and african cichlids. I think that statement comes from the fact that the coloration is not as bright as the discus. But the urau and discus are two different fishes, with different requirements, so its like comparings apples to organges in my opinion.

 

[ryansmith83]

A lot of old publications refer to Uaru amphiacanthoides as the poor man's discus. I think it has a lot to do with the compressed bodies, large bright eyes, and the fact that they feed their fry off skin secretions to an extent (not as crucial as discus).

They are great fish but grow very large and will eat everything. You'll need a big tank, good filtration, and stay on top of your water changes. Like discus, they are sensitive to water quality.

Mine didn't grow much once they hit 6" -- I think I slowed them down a bit by putting them with my severums which out-compete them for food (which is a surprise, considering how voracious a uaru's appetite is). I think if you have the tank size for it, go for it. $10 - 15 for a large juvie is a great price. I never even see good quality uaru here.

I agree about discus being pretty easy... they're no different than any other cichlid. Pay attention to the few basic requirements (frequent water changes, high quality food, warm water) and they will thrive, as long as you start with healthy stock. The main problem with discus is that most LFS and online dealers sell culls and low-grade fish. You really need to get them from a reputable breeder or importer to ensure that they've not been put through hell by the LFS. If you start with sick/weak/stressed stock, chances are they're going to crash on you.

 

[Red_Belly_Pacu]

I just spoke with the owner of the LFS. Since he knows I am a regular customer, he will let the 4 inch Uarus go for $10 each if I buy four of them.