We were privileged to attended a lecture from the renowned Heiko Bleher on June 3rd, 2011 in Melbourne. Bleher is an explorer, researcher, author, photographer ad conservationist; and is well known in the scientific community for his contribution to the exploration of freshwater habitats worldwide and the discovery of many new species to the science.
In today's lecture, Bleher covered the various unique Discus biotopes that exist within the Amazon River. Each biotope has different characteristics such as the species of fish, substrate, i.e. rock/gravel/sand, plants and water parameters. He presented a pictorial slideshow of the Discus biotopes that he studied at his recent expedition to the Amazon, which was truly amazing. 

Anyone can recreate a natural freshwater biotope within an aquarium with ease. When fish species are put into an aquarium with other species which normally coexist within a biotope, coupled with the same aquascape materials found in their habitat, they will feel the most comfortable, be healthier and will even commence breeding instantly! Yes, he showed us proof of several species who spawned with in hours of setting up the biotope. 

One of the biotopes Bleher has created is of Lake Cuipeuà, Brazil: