Who Gives A Fish Forums

Could be a territory thing. My discus did the same until I added more hiding spots. Try adding some tall plants or rocks to break up sightlines. What's your tank layout like?


Totally agree. I added some java ferns and they chilled out. Also, how many discus you got in there? Overcrowding can ...

How often do y'all replace the filter floss? I've got a 90 gallon with 7 Discus, and the floss clogs up fast. Using a canister with Matrix and sponges, but the floss turns nasty in like a week. Temp's 85F, weekly 40% changes. Also, anyone tried lava rock? Heard it's cheap and effective.

lyaka wrote: ↑Fri May 23, 2025 6:29 pm Opposite sides is the way to go. It ensures even heat distribution, especially in a tank that size. I've got a 90 gallon with two 200W heaters on each end, and my Discus are thriving. What's your water temp right now?

Thanks! Temp's at 82°F, but it fluctuates a bit. Gonna try your setup.

Just set up a 75 gallon tank for my Discus and wondering about heater placement. Got two 200W heaters but not sure if they should be on opposite sides or together near the filter. Anyone got tips?

I've had success with a 40-gallon breeder tank. The wider footprint gives them more room to move. I keep the pH around 6.5 and use almond leaves for tannins. Fry survival rate went up after I switched to live baby brine shrimp.

Happy to help! One more thing—lighting. If they're darting after changes, dim the lights for an hour. Mine act less spooked when it's moody in there. Like a fishy spa day.

I picked up a terracotta pot today. Gonna sand it down and toss it in tonight. Fingers crossed my fish like it as much as yours do. Tank's been stable, 84°F, pH 6.6, with a sponge filter and sand.

That's awesome! I've heard PVC pipes work too, but I've never tried them. My Discus seem to prefer smooth surfaces. Maybe I'll give the terracotta a shot. My tank's similar, 45 gallons, with a HOB filter and lots of floating plants. Water's at 83°F, pH 6.8.