keeping discus in a community tank
keeping discus in a community tank
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.
Re: keeping discus in a community tank
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.
Re: keeping discus in a community tank
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.
-
coralCartel - Posts: 18
- Joined: Tue May 03, 2022 10:48 am
Re: keeping discus in a community tank
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.
Re: keeping discus in a community tank
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.
Re: keeping discus in a community tank
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.
Re: keeping discus in a community tank
Smart move starting with one. Watch how it interacts, especially during feeding. What's your plan for quarantine? New Discus should be isolated for at least two weeks.
Re: keeping discus in a community tank
My two cents, skip the Angelfish if you're serious about Discus. They're just gonna stress each other out. Also, what's your water change schedule like? Gotta stay on top of it, or you'll run into health issues fast.
Re: keeping discus in a community tank
Absolutely agree on quarantine. I use a 20-gallon hospital tank with a sponge filter and daily water changes. Treat with Metroplex as a precaution, even if they look healthy.