When a breeding pair is formed, they will select a breeding territory within the aquarium and defend it from other fish. It is virtually impossible to sex discus fish, and the best way to breed them is to raise a shoal of six or more discus in optimum water conditions and let them form pairs on their own. They can also be fed on chopped beef liver and specialized flake foods.ĭiscus fish are extremely sensitive to changes in water quality and temperature and can perish when subject to stress and abrupt changes in water conditions. These fish are carnivores and thrive when fed on live foods like Blood Worm, Brine Shrimp, Mosquito Larvae and Tube Worms. They will often be bullied and out-competed for food by the more aggressive and assertive species of fish and can die of stress and malnourishment. When cared for well, they will usually grow up to a length of 6 inches and can sometimes even reach lengths of 8 inches.ĭiscus fish are extremely peaceful in nature and will not do well when kept with more competitive and aggressive species of fish. It is also important to maintain excellent water conditions and filtration in the discus aquarium and it is advisable to carry out partial water changes each week. They are a very shy, easily frightened species of fish, so it is important to recreate this type of natural habitat in the discus aquarium with subdued lighting, dark substrate and open swimming space and plenty of hiding places. In their natural habitat, discus live in slow moving tributaries and forest pools amongst dense vegetation, tree roots and rocks. These fish are extremely sensitive to changes in water quality and temperature and can perish when subject to stress and abrupt changes in water conditions. They prefer very soft, warm, acidic water, and extreme care needs to be taken to ensure that their aquarium parameters remain stable. While most wild discus are a drab brown or green in color, modern strains come in a variety of vibrant shades of blue, green, yellow, red and white.ĭiscus fish are one of the hardest species of freshwater aquarium fish to keep. The discus fish is native to the Amazon River basin in tropical South America. Often regarded as the king of the freshwater aquarium, discus fish are one of the most beautiful species of freshwater aquarium fish and one of the hardest to keep. Discus fish have laterally compressed and almost perfectly round, disc shaped bodies and sport two long pelvic fins. While they can be kept in an aquarium with other peaceful species of freshwater fish, it is recommended that they be kept in a ‘species tank’ due to their very specific tank and water requirements. Discus fish are extremely peaceful and shy in temperament and do best when kept in groups of six or more. The demanding aquarium conditions that these fish require to survive make it an unsuitable fish for beginner and intermediate aquarists. 5 What Are The Best Tank Mates For Discus?īelow, for your convenience, there is a list of some of the best tank mates for your beautiful Discus!.3 How To Setup A Tank For Discus With Tank Mates.Often regarded as the king of the freshwater aquarium, discus fish are one of the most beautiful species of freshwater aquarium fish and one of the hardest to keep. So how come Discus fish are so commonly found in tanks with other fish? Is it completely necessary for the Discus to live well?Īctually, no. A tank with just Discus fish inside not only looks great but is easier to care for, at least for those who are new to the hobby. After all, the fewer fish you have, the less can go wrong. For instance, the general shyness of the Discus can be an issue, especially when you want them showing off but they’re too busy hiding! If other fish that are normally prey are swimming about freely, it will encourage your Discus to swim as well by letting them know it is safe! How To Setup A Tank For Discus With Tank Mates However, there are reasons to keep other fish with your Discus. When setting up a tank for Discus fish, the important thing to consider is that they’re very particular. Remember, it is a Discus tank with other fish, not vice versa. It is important that the Discus’ tank is set up to the exact specifications they need, rather than being tailored to another fish. The main purpose of your tank should be to be a Discus tank, with the other fish serving as support for the Discus. Otherwise, the Discus will be too shy, and its beauty will be hidden in the pits and crevices of your aquarium, rather than out in the open where it belongs. Temperatureĭiscus fish are from the Amazon, and so they are used to waters that are quite a bit warmer than average. Try to keep the water between 82 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Some types of Discus, such as wild Heckel Discus, prefer water that is even up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
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