Who Gives A Fish Forums

What's your lighting schedule? High light plus ferts can cause algae blooms, which stress Discus. I run mine 6 hours a day, no CO2, and keep nitrates under 10ppm.


Good point. Julian, if you're running high light, dial it back or reduce ferts. Algae isn't just ugly, it competes with plants for ...

Flourish is generally safe if dosed correctly. I've used it in my 120 gallon with Discus for years. Key is to start with half the recommended dose and monitor their behavior. Any signs of stress, like clamped fins or hiding, cut it back. What's your substrate? Root tabs can be a safer alternative ...

lunar wrote: ↑Thu Jun 05, 2025 11:43 pm My cat does this thing where she stares at the tank for hours. Think she's hypnotizing them?

Let's stay on topic. Tigercub, any updates after checking the heater and filter?

Yo, my discus did this too when I had a sketchy heater. Temp swings freaked 'em out. Double-check your heater's working right, maybe grab a backup thermometer. Also, how old are they? Juveniles sometimes act weird just 'cause they're still figuring things out.


Good point on the heater. Tigercub ...

Light matters as much as flow. If your PAR's too low, they'll retract regardless of flow. Aim for 200–250 PAR at the coral's location, with that moderate indirect flow everyone's mentioning.

I'd check the lighting too. If it's too bright, they might feel exposed. Mine chilled out when I switched to dimmer LEDs. Also, any new tankmates? Sometimes newcomers mess with their vibe.

roadside wrote: ↑Sat May 03, 2025 8:30 am Thanks for the tips, everyone. Gonna test my nitrates and maybe invest in a CO2 setup. Appreciate the help.

No problem. Let us know how it goes. CO2 can be sketchy at first but worth it in the long run.

Dwarf hairgrass can be tricky but rewarding. I've had success with it in my 30 gallon, same substrate as yours. Key is high light and CO2. Without CO2, it'll grow slower but can still carpet if you're patient. What's your nitrate level at?

Plants can work, but they're not necessary. If you do add 'em, go with epiphytes like Anubias. They don't need substrate, so they won't interfere with your bare bottom setup. Just tie 'em to a rock or something.

I'd skip the driftwood if you're going bare bottom. It's easier to maintain pristine water without it. Pairing is hit or miss, but if you've got a group, let them choose. What's your lighting schedule? I keep mine on 12 hours, dimmed to reduce stress.