discus breeding pair tank mates

Chat about all things related to Discus, from purchasing to breeding and everything in between. One of the most beautiful species in the hobby
Lion
Posts: 14
Joined: Wed Aug 14, 2024 2:24 am

discus breeding pair tank mates

Post by Lion »

Got a breeding pair of Discus in a 75-gallon tank, pH 6.5, temp 84°F. Wondering what tank mates won't mess with their vibe. Currently got some Cardinal Tetras but thinking of adding more. Heard Rams might work but not sure. Anyone got experience with this?
Lardy
Posts: 8
Joined: Fri Jul 19, 2024 7:33 am

Re: discus breeding pair tank mates

Post by Lardy »

Rams are a solid choice, mate. They're chill and won't bother your Discus. Just keep an eye on the temp, Rams like it warm too. I've got a pair in my 60-gallon with Discus, no issues. Also, consider some Corydoras for the bottom, they're harmless and keep things tidy.
sunsets
Posts: 11
Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 2:08 pm

Re: discus breeding pair tank mates

Post by sunsets »

I've had success with German Blue Rams and Discus together. Just make sure your water is pristine, Rams can be sensitive. My setup is similar to yours, 75-gallon, soft water, lots of plants. The Rams and Discus ignore each other, which is perfect.
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Jazzman
Posts: 19
Joined: Mon Jan 31, 2022 9:14 pm

Re: discus breeding pair tank mates

Post by Jazzman »

If you're adding more fish, stick to peaceful species. Avoid anything nippy like Tiger Barbs. I'd say Rams or Apistogrammas are your best bet. Also, make sure your filtration can handle the bioload. What kind of filter are you running?
Lion
Posts: 14
Joined: Wed Aug 14, 2024 2:24 am

Re: discus breeding pair tank mates

Post by Lion »

Thanks for the advice, everyone. I'm running a canister filter, Fluval FX4. Water changes are 30% twice a week. Sounds like Rams are the way to go. Any specific type of Ram you'd recommend?
pureride
Posts: 12
Joined: Tue Aug 22, 2023 10:56 am

Re: discus breeding pair tank mates

Post by pureride »

German Blues are the classic choice, but Bolivian Rams are tougher if your water isn't super soft. Either way, they're gonna be fine as long as your Discus are happy. Just don't overcrowd the tank, yeah?
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jiffix
Posts: 15
Joined: Sun Apr 23, 2023 10:25 pm

Re: discus breeding pair tank mates

Post by jiffix »

What about adding some shrimp? I've seen some folks keep Amanos with Discus. They're cool and help with algae. Just make sure your Discus aren't the type to snack on them.
Lavida
Posts: 14
Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 3:33 pm

Re: discus breeding pair tank mates

Post by Lavida »

Shrimp might be sketchy, mate. Discus can get curious and might try to eat 'em. Stick with fish tank mates for now. Rams and Corys are safe bets, like everyone's saying.
Jazzie
Posts: 12
Joined: Mon Oct 31, 2022 11:13 pm

Re: discus breeding pair tank mates

Post by Jazzie »

I've got a pair of Discus with some Harlequin Rasboras. They're super peaceful and add a nice pop of color. Just make sure your tank's got plenty of hiding spots. Plants and driftwood help a ton.
sunsets
Posts: 11
Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 2:08 pm

Re: discus breeding pair tank mates

Post by sunsets »

Lardy wrote: Wed Jul 16, 2025 4:51 pm Rams are a solid choice, mate. They're chill and won't bother your Discus. Just keep an eye on the temp, Rams like it warm too. I've got a pair in my 60-gallon with Discus, no issues. Also, consider some Corydoras for the bottom, they're harmless and keep things tidy.
Yep, temp is key. My Rams and Discus both thrive at 84°F. Just keep up with those water changes, and you'll be golden.
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