why is my discus so skittish?

[PureAddict]

My discus have been acting super jumpy lately, darting around the tank whenever I walk by. Tank is a 75 gallon, temp at 84F, pH 6.8, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 10 nitrate. They're about 4 months old, fed beef heart mix twice a day. Tankmates are 6 cardinal tetras and a pair of rams. Filter is a Fluval 407, substrate is sand, and I've got some driftwood and java fern. No recent changes except a water change 3 days ago. What's up with them?

[Wind]

Skittish behavior can be from a bunch of things. How's the lighting situation? Bright lights can freak them out, especially if the tank's in a high-traffic area. Also, how often do you do water changes? Discus are super sensitive to water quality, even small fluctuations can stress them. I'd check the TDS too, just to rule that out.

[boldo]

My discus have been acting super jumpy lately, darting around the tank whenever I walk by. Tank is a 75 gallon, temp at 84F, pH 6.8, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 10 nitrate. They're about 4 months old, fed beef heart mix twice a day. Tankmates are 6 cardinal tetras and a pair of rams. Filter is a Fluval 407, substrate is sand, and I've got some driftwood and java fern. No recent changes except a water change 3 days ago. What's up with them?

Your params look solid, but young discus are naturally more skittish. Try dimming the lights or adding floating plants to make them feel safer. Also, how close is the tank to a door or window? Sudden movements nearby can spook them.

[jason]

I'd second the lighting thing. Discus prefer subdued lighting, and if the tank's too bright, they'll stay on edge. Also, what's your water change routine? Frequent small changes are better than infrequent large ones. And are you using a water conditioner? Some brands can leave behind residues that irritate them.

[PureAddict]

Thanks for the tips, everyone. I'll try dimming the lights and see if that helps. The tank is in the living room, so it's kinda busy. I do 30% water changes twice a week, using Seachem Prime. Maybe I'll add some floaters like frogbit.

[Lena]

Mine were like that too until I added more hiding spots. Maybe throw in some more plants or a bigger piece of driftwood? They chill out when they feel secure.

[pores]

How's the flow from your filter? Too much current can stress them out. Also, are the cardinals and rams bothering them? Sometimes tankmates can be sneaky bullies.

[gold]

Yep, more cover is key. Mine stopped being jumpy after I added a bunch of valisneria. Also, try feeding at the same times every day, they like routine.

[mistysea]

Thanks for the tips, everyone. I'll try dimming the lights and see if that helps. The tank is in the living room, so it's kinda busy. I do 30% water changes twice a week, using Seachem Prime. Maybe I'll add some floaters like frogbit.

That sounds like a good plan. Also, how's the noise level? Loud TVs or music can make them nervous.

[Wind]

Yep, more cover is key. Mine stopped being jumpy after I added a bunch of valisneria. Also, try feeding at the same times every day, they like routine.

Totally agree. Consistency is huge with discus. They're like clockwork once they get used to a schedule.