Here's what works for me. I vacuum poop and 5-10% water every morning, then replace the water. I clean the HOB filters every 3 days, and squeeze out the sponge filters every other month. That's it.
I'm not a fan of huge water changes. I just can't wrap my head around it, even though I respect the knowledge and experience of some of you here. I know it's worked for you, but I just can't see how daily water changes can be good for the fish and bacteria.
In my opinion, bacteria need food and oxygen to survive. If they don't get it, they die. And if you're changing the water every day, what's the point of having a filter?
I know this might ruffle some feathers, but anaerobic conditions are natural in the wild. We even create dead spots in our koi ponds on purpose.
I have discus in three tanks - two 112-gallon and one 56-gallon. I use HOB filters with large sponge filters, and I stacked the sponge filters in the main tank, just like wilde suggested. I also have a power head running them.
My fish are doing great - three pairs and one loner. I need to find a new home for my fancy goldfish, and I might wait a bit before getting a new one.
This daily poop vacuum seems to be working great. No algae problems, and my fish are thriving. No sick fish or problems in nearly a year.
My approach is to "keep your hands out of the tank." It worked for me with saltwater, and now I'm using it with my discus. I find they're more friendly, colorful, and healthy.
I feed frozen foods every day - it's expensive, but worth it. I also feed SF Brand frozen bloodworms and FD tubifex worms. I use a lot of FD products, and I have to say, I've had no problems at all in nearly a year.
I know I might get flamed for this, but this forum is for sharing opinions and experiences, right? Bring it on - I'm ready.
Small, Small, Daily WCs
Re: Small, Small, Daily WCs
Re: Small, Small, Daily WCs
I think we're all about finding what works, right? I'm pretty sure some folks, like peewee, do it similarly. Now, about those big water changes - I get that you're adding new minerals, but still, I'm not convinced. Most who do huge changes use sponge filters, I suppose.
My real question is, how do you keep your hands out of the tanks? I've been doing this for over 40 years, and I'm still figuring it out. I've got my hands in all the tanks - cleaning sponge filters, putting food on the glass, vacuuming. I've started washing them between tanks since my CC problem, but that's about it.
I think we're all about finding what works, right? I'm pretty sure some folks, like peewee, do it similarly. Now, about those big water changes - I get that you're adding new minerals, but still, I'm not convinced. Most who do huge changes use sponge filters, I suppose.
My real question is, how do you keep your hands out of the tanks? I've been doing this for over 40 years, and I'm still figuring it out. I've got my hands in all the tanks - cleaning sponge filters, putting food on the glass, vacuuming. I've started washing them between tanks since my CC problem, but that's about it.
Re: Small, Small, Daily WCs
Re: Small, Small, Daily WCs
Hehehe, Vinni, I'm not here to attack, but I do have a different perspective. You see, what works best for you might not be what's best in general. I'm not questioning your results, but rather the idea that small daily water changes are the way to go.
I've been in the hobby for a while, and I've tried different approaches. Back in the day, I used to change 100% of the water once a week. My family would plan around it, and we'd make do. But I've since moved on to better systems, and I've learned a thing or two about what works.
I used to breed discus with a friend, and we made a pretty penny doing it. He'd change 30-40% of the water after every meal, and those young discus would grow like crazy. I'd bring over spawns, and he'd raise them to perfection. It was amazing to see. Now, I'm not saying you need to do daily water changes for adult discus, but if you want to grow out young ones, it's a different story.
I've got a setup that allows for daily 100% water changes, and my bacteria thrive. My sponges get slimy with microbial growth in no time, and I've even started offering free cycled sponges to local aquarists who are struggling. It's amazing how well it works.
Now, I know some people swear by anaerobic filtration, but I'm here to tell you, it's a myth. I've read the threads, and I've stayed out of it until now. But let me be clear: anaerobic growth in aquariums is not a thing. There might be some activity in deep substrates, but that's about it.
I've watched Dr. Novak's videos, and I'm not impressed. He's got no credentials in this area, and his methods are unproven. I've got a Ph.D. in microbiology, and I can tell you that anaerobic growth requires specialized equipment and techniques. It's not something you can achieve with a DIY setup.
I love angelfish, but I've come to appreciate the differences between them and discus. They're two species that evolved in different environments, and they have different needs. If you want to optimize for growth, you need to consider those needs.
I keep a small fish room, and I'm not in it for the numbers. I want every fish to be a showstopper. I don't keep many, but I want them to be the best. I've got clear objectives, and I'm working towards them.
Hehehe, Vinni, I'm not here to attack, but I do have a different perspective. You see, what works best for you might not be what's best in general. I'm not questioning your results, but rather the idea that small daily water changes are the way to go.
I've been in the hobby for a while, and I've tried different approaches. Back in the day, I used to change 100% of the water once a week. My family would plan around it, and we'd make do. But I've since moved on to better systems, and I've learned a thing or two about what works.
I used to breed discus with a friend, and we made a pretty penny doing it. He'd change 30-40% of the water after every meal, and those young discus would grow like crazy. I'd bring over spawns, and he'd raise them to perfection. It was amazing to see. Now, I'm not saying you need to do daily water changes for adult discus, but if you want to grow out young ones, it's a different story.
I've got a setup that allows for daily 100% water changes, and my bacteria thrive. My sponges get slimy with microbial growth in no time, and I've even started offering free cycled sponges to local aquarists who are struggling. It's amazing how well it works.
Now, I know some people swear by anaerobic filtration, but I'm here to tell you, it's a myth. I've read the threads, and I've stayed out of it until now. But let me be clear: anaerobic growth in aquariums is not a thing. There might be some activity in deep substrates, but that's about it.
I've watched Dr. Novak's videos, and I'm not impressed. He's got no credentials in this area, and his methods are unproven. I've got a Ph.D. in microbiology, and I can tell you that anaerobic growth requires specialized equipment and techniques. It's not something you can achieve with a DIY setup.
I love angelfish, but I've come to appreciate the differences between them and discus. They're two species that evolved in different environments, and they have different needs. If you want to optimize for growth, you need to consider those needs.
I keep a small fish room, and I'm not in it for the numbers. I want every fish to be a showstopper. I don't keep many, but I want them to be the best. I've got clear objectives, and I'm working towards them.
Re: Small, Small, Daily WCs
Re: Small, Small, Daily WCs
I've been thinking about this water change business and I'm convinced it's all about understanding the needs of our discus at different stages. See, I think you gotta divide them into three groups: juvies under 4-5 months, juvies 5 months to 1 year, and adults. Each group's got its own requirements when it comes to water changes, if you ask me.
It's not just about doing some daily or weekly water change ritual, it's about understanding what your discus need at each stage of their lives. I mean, think about it - young juvies need all the help they can get to grow and thrive, adults are a bit more laid back, but still need some TLC.
I'm not saying I've got all the answers, but I'm convinced that once you understand these different requirements, you can tailor your water change routine to meet their needs. And that's when the magic happens - healthy, happy discus that'll make your tank shine.
I've been thinking about this water change business and I'm convinced it's all about understanding the needs of our discus at different stages. See, I think you gotta divide them into three groups: juvies under 4-5 months, juvies 5 months to 1 year, and adults. Each group's got its own requirements when it comes to water changes, if you ask me.
It's not just about doing some daily or weekly water change ritual, it's about understanding what your discus need at each stage of their lives. I mean, think about it - young juvies need all the help they can get to grow and thrive, adults are a bit more laid back, but still need some TLC.
I'm not saying I've got all the answers, but I'm convinced that once you understand these different requirements, you can tailor your water change routine to meet their needs. And that's when the magic happens - healthy, happy discus that'll make your tank shine.
Re: Small, Small, Daily WCs
Re: Small, Small, Daily WCs
Vinnie, I'm with you on this. We all have our own ways of doing things, and as long as it works, that's all that matters. Heck, I do my last feeding after the evening water change - not exactly conventional, but it suits me just fine. You're clearly getting great results, so stick with what you're doing and don't worry about what others think.
Vinnie, I'm with you on this. We all have our own ways of doing things, and as long as it works, that's all that matters. Heck, I do my last feeding after the evening water change - not exactly conventional, but it suits me just fine. You're clearly getting great results, so stick with what you're doing and don't worry about what others think.
Re: Small, Small, Daily WCs
I think there's more to water changes for adult discus than meets the eye. Sonyx is right, we need to consider different age groups, but I've found that even with adults, big water changes can make a difference. It's not just about growth, but about overall health and size. I've seen it in my own tanks - constant large water changes can be the difference between a 6" discus and a 7" fish. And let's be honest, once you've got 7" discus swimming around, those 6" fish start to look a bit stunted.
Re: Small, Small, Daily WCs
Re: Small, Small, Daily WCs
That’s great if it works for you. I've always found that observing what a farm does gives a good indication of requirements. Yes, I know their tanks are usually overcrowded and heavily fed, but that's not the point. The point is they change a massive amount of water daily - 300-400% in some cases. I think it also depends on what you want to get out of the hobby. I want monster-sized discus in a monster-sized tank, so I'm willing to do what it takes to achieve that.
My local distributors here in Aus also run daily water changes and the results are in their fish and reputation. I've noticed that when I do larger water changes, my fish look like they're thriving - it's like they're piranhas or something. Bacteria have plenty to feed on, as fish are always producing waste, and it's instantly converted down the nitrogen cycle. My tap water contains small amounts of nitrites, so it's crucial that I have a large BB colony to quickly convert it.
That’s great if it works for you. I've always found that observing what a farm does gives a good indication of requirements. Yes, I know their tanks are usually overcrowded and heavily fed, but that's not the point. The point is they change a massive amount of water daily - 300-400% in some cases. I think it also depends on what you want to get out of the hobby. I want monster-sized discus in a monster-sized tank, so I'm willing to do what it takes to achieve that.
My local distributors here in Aus also run daily water changes and the results are in their fish and reputation. I've noticed that when I do larger water changes, my fish look like they're thriving - it's like they're piranhas or something. Bacteria have plenty to feed on, as fish are always producing waste, and it's instantly converted down the nitrogen cycle. My tap water contains small amounts of nitrites, so it's crucial that I have a large BB colony to quickly convert it.
Re: Small, Small, Daily WCs
Re: Small, Small, Daily WCs
Vinnie, I'm loving this thread - it's like a warm hug for all the aquarium enthusiasts out there. I mean, it's not like we're discussing the meaning of life or anything, but it's always great to see people sharing their experiences and opinions. I remember back in the day, you'd get roasted for even suggesting something like this, but I'm glad we've moved past that.
So, here's my two cents. I used to keep discus back in the mid-90s when I was living in Hampton Roads, VA. I was a young kid, and I shouldn't have been keeping them, but I did. I used to do old-school water changes with buckets and whatnot, and my discus were happy and healthy, but they didn't grow very well. However, I gave a few of my "stunted" fish to a buddy of mine, Craig, whose parents used well water. Within four months, those discus had a huge growth spurt - we're talking 1-1.5 inches - and they were thriving in an overcrowded 20-gallon tank.
Now, I'm not saying all well water is created equal, but Craig's well water was like liquid gold. I'm guessing it had a lot of minerals that were beneficial for the discus. You're in TN, right? I'm betting your tap water has more minerals and is harder than mine. I'd love to know what kind of minerals you have in your water.
Also, I'm curious - what's the average size of your discus that you first got when they were 2.5-4 months old? I'm not trying to pry or anything, but I'm just curious.
Here's a thought experiment - I'd love to see you try this out. Take 16 discus fry from the same hatch, split them into two groups, and keep them in separate 40-gallon tanks. Do your daily water change routine in one tank, and do 80% water changes in the other. Keep track of their growth for 10 months, and then share the results. I think it would be really interesting to see how the discus in each tank grow and develop.
Vinnie, I'm loving this thread - it's like a warm hug for all the aquarium enthusiasts out there. I mean, it's not like we're discussing the meaning of life or anything, but it's always great to see people sharing their experiences and opinions. I remember back in the day, you'd get roasted for even suggesting something like this, but I'm glad we've moved past that.
So, here's my two cents. I used to keep discus back in the mid-90s when I was living in Hampton Roads, VA. I was a young kid, and I shouldn't have been keeping them, but I did. I used to do old-school water changes with buckets and whatnot, and my discus were happy and healthy, but they didn't grow very well. However, I gave a few of my "stunted" fish to a buddy of mine, Craig, whose parents used well water. Within four months, those discus had a huge growth spurt - we're talking 1-1.5 inches - and they were thriving in an overcrowded 20-gallon tank.
Now, I'm not saying all well water is created equal, but Craig's well water was like liquid gold. I'm guessing it had a lot of minerals that were beneficial for the discus. You're in TN, right? I'm betting your tap water has more minerals and is harder than mine. I'd love to know what kind of minerals you have in your water.
Also, I'm curious - what's the average size of your discus that you first got when they were 2.5-4 months old? I'm not trying to pry or anything, but I'm just curious.
Here's a thought experiment - I'd love to see you try this out. Take 16 discus fry from the same hatch, split them into two groups, and keep them in separate 40-gallon tanks. Do your daily water change routine in one tank, and do 80% water changes in the other. Keep track of their growth for 10 months, and then share the results. I think it would be really interesting to see how the discus in each tank grow and develop.
Re: Small, Small, Daily WCs
Re: Small, Small, Daily WCs
I'm with Francis and wilde on this - it really boils down to what you want from your discus. If giant, full-rounded fish are your goal, water changes are a must. For just survival and possible large growth, frequent changes are still necessary. But I'd take it a step further - a stable, clean system with proper biofiltration is just as crucial. When I was doing large water changes, my fish grew from 2.5 to 4.5 in no time. However, when my water chemistry started to suffer, their growth took a hit. I've got some near 6" now, but I know their growth was hampered by my inexperience. If I had the means, I'd love to do an experiment like Elliot suggested and document the results.
I'm with Francis and wilde on this - it really boils down to what you want from your discus. If giant, full-rounded fish are your goal, water changes are a must. For just survival and possible large growth, frequent changes are still necessary. But I'd take it a step further - a stable, clean system with proper biofiltration is just as crucial. When I was doing large water changes, my fish grew from 2.5 to 4.5 in no time. However, when my water chemistry started to suffer, their growth took a hit. I've got some near 6" now, but I know their growth was hampered by my inexperience. If I had the means, I'd love to do an experiment like Elliot suggested and document the results.
Re: Small, Small, Daily WCs
Re: Small, Small, Daily WCs
I'm with you on that, Shan. Only a few months ago, I was in the same boat - no space to experiment. But now, with my new place, I've got the room to try new things. If I can get a batch going, I'll definitely document my progress so you can live vicariously through me.
I'm with you on that, Shan. Only a few months ago, I was in the same boat - no space to experiment. But now, with my new place, I've got the room to try new things. If I can get a batch going, I'll definitely document my progress so you can live vicariously through me.