How often to change discus tank water?
How often to change discus tank water?
I've got a 75-gallon tank with 6 Discus, all around 4 inches. Been doing 30% water changes twice a week, but they still seem stressed. Should I bump it up to 50%? Tank's got a Fluval FX6, sand substrate, and a few Amazon swords. Water params are good, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, nitrate stays under 20 ppm.
Re: How often to change discus tank water?
Twice a week is solid, but with Discus, bigger changes are better. I do 50% every 3 days in my 100-gallon. They're super sensitive to buildup, even if params look fine. What's your temp at? They like it hot, around 84-86°F. Also, how's your feeding routine? Overfeeding can mess with water quality fast.
Re: How often to change discus tank water?
Yep, agree with Misty. I've got a 55-gallon with 5 Discus and do 50% changes every other day. They're way more active now. Also, check your tap water—some places have sketchy pH swings after changes.Misty wrote: ↑Wed Apr 23, 2025 11:29 am Twice a week is solid, but with Discus, bigger changes are better. I do 50% every 3 days in my 100-gallon. They're super sensitive to buildup, even if params look fine. What's your temp at? They like it hot, around 84-86°F. Also, how's your feeding routine? Overfeeding can mess with water quality fast.
Re: How often to change discus tank water?
Mine are in a 40-gallon breeder, and I change 25% weekly. They're doing okay, but not growing fast. Maybe I should up it? Running a sponge filter and keeping temp at 82°F. Feed them frozen bloodworms twice a day.
Re: How often to change discus tank water?
Weekly changes are cutting it too close for Discus. They're not like other tropical fish—way more demanding. Bump it to at least twice a week, and see if they perk up. Also, bloodworms are great, but gotta mix in some high-protein pellets or beef heart for growth.
Re: How often to change discus tank water?
I'm new to Discus but heard they need super clean water. Got a 60-gallon with 4 juveniles. Doing 20% daily changes—is that overkill? Tank's planted with driftwood, and I use Seachem Prime. Temp's at 85°F.
Re: How often to change discus tank water?
Nah, daily's chill for juvies. They grow faster with frequent changes. Just watch your tap water's TDS—some stuff doesn't show up on basic tests.
Re: How often to change discus tank water?
My tank's 50 gallons, 3 Discus. I change 40% weekly. They seem fine, but now I'm wondering if I should do more. Filter's a canister, and I feed flakes and brine shrimp. Nitrates never go above 10 ppm.
Re: How often to change discus tank water?
Thanks for the tips, everyone. Gonna try 50% changes every other day and monitor their behavior. Also switching to a mix of beef heart and pellets. Appreciate the help!
Re: How often to change discus tank water?
Good call on the beef heart—it's a game-changer for growth. Just don't overdo it, or you'll cloud the water fast. Keep us posted!