keeping discus in a community tank

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angelus
Posts: 5
Joined: Wed Oct 23, 2024 10:23 am

keeping discus in a community tank

Post by angelus »

Thinking about adding a few Discus to my 75-gallon community tank. Currently got some Tetras, Corydoras, and a pair of Angelfish. Water params are stable, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 5 nitrate, pH 6.8, temp at 84°F. Anyone got experience mixing them with other species? Worried about the high temp stressing the others.
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jiffix
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Joined: Sun Apr 23, 2023 10:25 pm

Re: keeping discus in a community tank

Post by jiffix »

Yep, gonna cut it straight, your Angelfish might mess with the Discus. They're chill but can get territorial. Tetras and Corys should be fine though. What's your feeding routine? Discus need multiple small meals, and the others might outcompete them.
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silverbob
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Re: keeping discus in a community tank

Post by silverbob »

I've kept Discus in a community tank for years. Key is consistency with water changes, at least 50% weekly. Your temp is good, but watch the Angelfish. Also, what's your substrate? Bare bottom or sand works best to keep waste from building up.
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coralCartel
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Joined: Tue May 03, 2022 10:48 am

Re: keeping discus in a community tank

Post by coralCartel »

My Discus are in with Rams and Cardinals, no issues. But my tank's a 120-gallon, so more space. How old are your Angelfish? Younger ones adapt better to tankmates. Also, what filter you running? Need strong flow but not too turbulent.
Nimbus
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Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 6:20 pm

Re: keeping discus in a community tank

Post by Nimbus »

I agree with silverbob on the water changes. Discus are super sensitive to nitrates. Also, make sure you've got plenty of hiding spots. Driftwood and tall plants like Amazon Swords help them feel secure. How's your lighting? Too bright can stress them out.
angelus
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Joined: Wed Oct 23, 2024 10:23 am

Re: keeping discus in a community tank

Post by angelus »

Thanks for the tips, everyone. I've got sand substrate and a Fluval FX4 filter. Lighting is moderate, 6 hours a day. The Angelfish are about a year old, so might be sketchy. Gonna try adding one Discus first to test the vibe.
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