Who Gives A Fish Forums

I've got a few Discus showing signs of fin rot, but every time I try to medicate, they freak out. Tank's a 75 gallon, temp at 84F, pH 6.8, running a Fluval FX6. Anyone got tips to keep them chill during treatment?

What meds are you using? I've had luck with Seachem Metroplex mixed into their food. Less stress than dosing the whole tank. Just gotta make sure they eat it all.

Agreed on the medicated food route. Also, dim the lights during treatment. Discus are skittish under bright light, especially when they're not feeling great. My 90 gallon has a dimmer, and it's a game-changer.

Lexat wrote: ↑Wed May 07, 2025 9:54 am I've got a few Discus showing signs of fin rot, but every time I try to medicate, they freak out. Tank's a 75 gallon, temp at 84F, pH 6.8, running a Fluval FX6. Anyone got tips to keep them chill during treatment?

Try adding some floating plants like frogbit. Gives them cover, cuts the light, and makes 'em feel safer. My crew stopped hiding once I added a bunch.

yo, just toss in some indian almond leaves. keeps the water tannin-y, helps 'em relax. works for my wild-caught guys.

second the leaves. also, skip the netting if you can. freaks 'em out way more than the meds.

Thanks, all. Gonna try the Metroplex in food and grab some almond leaves. Appreciate the tips.

gold wrote: ↑Wed May 07, 2025 1:19 pm yo, just toss in some indian almond leaves. keeps the water tannin-y, helps 'em relax. works for my wild-caught guys.

Good call on the leaves. Just watch the pH—they can drop it further if you overdo it. My tap's already soft, so I only use a couple at a time.

How often are you doing water changes during treatment? I've found smaller, daily changes (10-15%) keep the meds effective but don't shock the fish. My Discus are in a 55 with a sponge filter, and they handle it way better than big weekly changes.

Also, if you're using Metroplex, remember it knocks out your bio filter. Double up on Prime or whatever conditioner you use. My tank cycled crashed once mid-treatment, and that was a mess.