can discus live with tetras?

[Guardian]

I've got a 75 gallon tank with 5 Discus and was thinking of adding some Tetras. Heard mixed things about compatibility. Anyone got experience with this combo? My tank's been stable for 6 months, 82°F, pH 6.8, weekly 30% water changes with Seachem Prime. Running a Fluval FX6 and got some driftwood with Java Ferns.

[SunKnot]

Discus and Tetras can work if conditions are right. I've kept Cardinals with mine for years. Key is matching water params—soft, acidic, warm. Your setup sounds solid, but watch for aggression during feeding. My Discus are chill, but some get territorial. Feed high-quality pellets and frozen bloodworms to keep everyone happy.

[Lish]

I tried Neon Tetras with my Discus once, but they didn't last long. Maybe my water was too warm? Tank's at 84°F, and the Neons seemed stressed. Switched to Rummy Nose, and they're doing great. Also, make sure your Tetras are healthy before adding them. Quarantine for at least 2 weeks.

[lyaka]

I tried Neon Tetras with my Discus once, but they didn't last long. Maybe my water was too warm? Tank's at 84°F, and the Neons seemed stressed. Switched to Rummy Nose, and they're doing great. Also, make sure your Tetras are healthy before adding them. Quarantine for at least 2 weeks.

Neons prefer cooler temps, around 76–80°F. Discus need warmer, so Rummy Nose or Cardinals are better choices. My tank's at 82°F, and both species thrive. Also, avoid small Tetras—they might get eaten.

[Astrid]

It's all about the Tetras you pick. Embers, Cardinals, or Rummy Nose are solid. Avoid Serpae or Black Skirts—they nip fins. My 120 gallon has 8 Discus and 20 Cardinals, zero issues. Keep the tank heavily planted for hiding spots. Oh, and overfilter—Discus are messy eaters.

[dramatic]

Yep, gotta agree with Astrid. Cardinals are the way to go. My Discus tank's got 'em, and it's a vibe. Just don't skimp on the water changes. Discus are divas, and Tetras ain't gonna cut it if the water's sketchy. Weekly 50% changes here, and everyone's thriving.

[dWright]

Yep, gotta agree with Astrid. Cardinals are the way to go. My Discus tank's got 'em, and it's a vibe. Just don't skimp on the water changes. Discus are divas, and Tetras ain't gonna cut it if the water's sketchy. Weekly 50% changes here, and everyone's thriving.

Same here, man. Cardinals and Discus are a match made in heaven. Just keep the group size big—like 10+ Tetras. They're less likely to get picked on. Also, feed 'em separately if your Discus are hoggers.

[midas]

Water quality is non-negotiable. Discus and Tetras both need pristine conditions. I run a UV sterilizer to keep pathogens in check, especially with new additions. My tank's at 83°F, pH 6.5, and TDS around 150. Cardinals and Discus have coexisted peacefully for 2 years now.

[Guardian]

Thanks for the advice, everyone. Gonna start with a group of 10 Cardinals and see how it goes. I'll quarantine them first and keep an eye on the feeding dynamics. Appreciate the tips on water changes and filtration too.

[pores]

Good call on the Cardinals. Just remember to acclimate them slowly. Drip acclimation over 2 hours works best for me. Also, keep the lights dim for the first few days to reduce stress. My Discus took a week to ignore the newbies, but now they're cool.