Who Gives A Fish Forums

I'm setting up a breeding tank for my Discus and wondering what size would be best. I've got a pair that's been showing breeding behavior, but my current tank is only 20 gallons. Should I go for 40 or 55 gallons? Also, what's the ideal water change routine for breeding?

A 40-gallon tank is the minimum I'd recommend for a breeding pair. They need space to establish territory and reduce stress. Water changes should be frequent, at least 50% every other day, to keep nitrates low. Use a sponge filter to avoid sucking up fry.

I've bred Discus in a 55-gallon and it worked great. The extra space lets them chill without crowding. I do 30% water changes daily with RO water, temp at 84°F. Also, keep the tank bare-bottom for easier cleaning.

I'm new to this but my pair laid eggs in a 29-gallon. They didn't hatch though. Maybe the tank was too small? Should I upgrade before trying again?

rositas wrote: ↑Fri May 16, 2025 10:19 am I'm new to this but my pair laid eggs in a 29-gallon. They didn't hatch though. Maybe the tank was too small? Should I upgrade before trying again?

Yeah, 29 is sketchy for breeding. Go bigger and make sure your water's pristine. Also, check for fungus on the eggs next time.

I've had success with a 40-gallon breeder tank. The wider footprint gives them more room to move. I keep the pH around 6.5 and use almond leaves for tannins. Fry survival rate went up after I switched to live baby brine shrimp.

Does tank height matter? I've got a tall 55 but it's narrow. Wondering if that's gonna mess with their vibe.

Bare-bottom tanks are easier to clean, but I've seen breeders use thin sand. Just gotta siphon carefully. My pair spawned on a cone in a 40-gallon, temp at 86°F.

Yo, bigger is always better with Discus. My 75-gallon breeding tank is lit, and the fish are way less stressed. I do 50% water changes every day, no exceptions. Also, feed 'em beef heart mix for max growth.

PureAddict wrote: ↑Fri May 16, 2025 2:49 pm Yo, bigger is always better with Discus. My 75-gallon breeding tank is lit, and the fish are way less stressed. I do 50% water changes every day, no exceptions. Also, feed 'em beef heart mix for max growth.

Daily water changes are key, but 75 gallons might be overkill for beginners. Start with 40 or 55 if you're new to this.