why my discus looks pale?

[Fantom]

My discus has been looking pale for the past few days. Water params are good, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, nitrate around 10 ppm. Tank is 75 gallons, temp at 86°F, running a Fluval FX6. They're eating but not as aggressively as usual. Any ideas?

[boldo]

Pale coloration can stem from stress or diet. What's your feeding routine? Are you using beef heart or other high-protein foods? Also, how often are you doing water changes? Discus thrive with frequent changes, like 50% twice a week.

[Swiftsea]

I'd check the lighting too. If it's too bright, they might feel exposed. Mine chilled out when I switched to dimmer LEDs. Also, any new tankmates? Sometimes newcomers mess with their vibe.

[mole]

My discus has been looking pale for the past few days. Water params are good, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, nitrate around 10 ppm. Tank is 75 gallons, temp at 86°F, running a Fluval FX6. They're eating but not as aggressively as usual. Any ideas?

How old are they? Juveniles can fade if they're not getting enough protein. I'd up the beef heart and maybe add some garlic guard to stimulate appetite.

[Trick]

Any recent changes to the tank? New decor, filter media, or water conditioner? Even small shifts can stress them out. Also, what's the substrate? Darker substrates can help their colors pop.

[UTESO]

I'd double-check the temp consistency. Fluctuations can cause paleness. What heater are you using? Also, are they showing any other signs, like clamped fins or rapid breathing?

[Fantom]

Thanks for the suggestions, everyone. I'll try dimming the lights and upping the water changes. Feeding beef heart daily now, gonna see if that helps.

[Pathmaster]

I'd check the lighting too. If it's too bright, they might feel exposed. Mine chilled out when I switched to dimmer LEDs. Also, any new tankmates? Sometimes newcomers mess with their vibe.

Yep, lighting's huge. I run mine on a timer, 8 hours max. Also, what's your pH? If it's swinging, that'll sketch them out.

[Darego]

Mine did this once when the filter was too strong. They hate high flow. Maybe tweak the FX6 output?

[Luckyo]

Could be parasites. Have you treated with Metroplex or similar? Sometimes paleness is the first sign of something gnarly.