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discus tank powerhead placement
Posted: Thu Jul 31, 2025 8:54 pm
by tyrny
Hey, I'm setting up a 75-gallon tank for my Discus and wondering where to place the powerhead. Got a Fluval FX6 canister and a couple of sponge filters, but the flow seems uneven. Any tips?
Re: discus tank powerhead placement
Posted: Thu Jul 31, 2025 9:38 pm
by Buddy
I've got a similar setup in my 90-gallon. Place the powerhead near the surface pointing slightly downward to create a gentle ripple. Helps with oxygen exchange without stressing them. What's your water temp at?
Re: discus tank powerhead placement
Posted: Thu Jul 31, 2025 10:13 pm
by tyrny
Thanks, Buddy! Temp's at 84°F, pH 6.8. I'll try angling it like you said. Appreciate the help.
Re: discus tank powerhead placement
Posted: Thu Jul 31, 2025 11:38 pm
by elixir
Make sure the powerhead isn't too close to the substrate. You don't wanna kick up debris. I keep mine about mid-tank, angled toward the front glass.
Re: discus tank powerhead placement
Posted: Fri Aug 01, 2025 12:14 am
by Fuegoz
Yo, I had the same issue last month. Moved my powerhead to the back corner, and now the flow's smooth as butter. Also, check if your Discus are chill or if they're darting around. That'll tell you if the flow's too strong.
Re: discus tank powerhead placement
Posted: Fri Aug 01, 2025 12:46 am
by duskly
Fuegoz wrote: ↑Fri Aug 01, 2025 12:14 am
Yo, I had the same issue last month. Moved my powerhead to the back corner, and now the flow's smooth as butter. Also, check if your Discus are chill or if they're darting around. That'll tell you if the flow's too strong.
Back corner works for me too. Less turbulence near the front where they feed.
Re: discus tank powerhead placement
Posted: Fri Aug 01, 2025 1:03 am
by Silvan
Kinda random, but does anyone else's Discus vibe with the powerhead flow? Mine like to swim against it like they're in a gym. Weirdos.
Re: discus tank powerhead placement
Posted: Fri Aug 01, 2025 3:03 am
by Craftsman
If you're using a powerhead, pair it with a wave maker controller. Gives you more control over the flow patterns. My Discus seem happier with intermittent gentle surges.
Re: discus tank powerhead placement
Posted: Fri Aug 01, 2025 3:32 am
by citySpin
I ditched my powerhead altogether. Just using sponge filters and the canister output. Less tech, less hassle. Discus are thriving.
Re: discus tank powerhead placement
Posted: Fri Aug 01, 2025 4:43 am
by Veloce
For a 75-gallon, aim for a flow rate around 600-800 GPH total. Too much and they'll hide, too little and waste builds up. Balance is key.