Who Gives A Fish Forums

I'm setting up a new 75-gallon tank for my Discus and wanna make sure the decor won't mess with them. Heard some stuff can leach chemicals or have sharp edges. What should I avoid?

Avoid resin or painted decor, as they can leach toxins over time. Stick to natural materials like driftwood or smooth river rocks. I've had success with Malaysian driftwood in my 90-gallon, but boil it first to remove tannins. Also, check edges on any rocks—Discus are delicate.

Yep, smooth stuff is key. My fish got scraped on a cheap ornament once. Now I only use sandblasted wood and rounded stones. Also, no sharp plastic plants!

pepper wrote: ↑Thu May 29, 2025 8:34 am Yep, smooth stuff is key. My fish got scraped on a cheap ornament once. Now I only use sandblasted wood and rounded stones. Also, no sharp plastic plants!

Exactly. I'd add that even some 'aquarium-safe' resins can be sketchy. Test anything new in a bucket for a week first. My 120-gallon has spiderwood and slate, zero issues.

Dude, skip the glow-in-the-dark junk. Had a buddy lose a whole tank to that crap leaching who-knows-what. Stick to natural vibes—they're chill with plants like Java fern or Anubias tied to wood.

If you're using rocks, do the vinegar test. If it fizzes, don't use it. My Discus love the caves I made from stacked slate, but I sanded every edge smooth. Also, avoid anything with small holes where they could get stuck.

What about substrate? I've seen mixed advice on sand vs. gravel.

Lexi wrote: ↑Thu May 29, 2025 2:14 pm What about substrate? I've seen mixed advice on sand vs. gravel.

Fine sand is best—gravel can trap waste and harm their barbels. I use pool filter sand in my tank, easy to clean and looks natural. Just rinse it well before adding.

I've noticed my Discus prefer tanks with minimal decor. Too much clutter stresses them. A few pieces of driftwood and some plants are enough.

Yo, don't forget about weight! Some decor can topple if they swim near it. I anchor my wood with slate bases. Also, check for loose bits that could break off.