Who Gives A Fish Forums

I'm pretty new to this, so bear with me... I've been searching the forum but couldn't find any info on using a mirrored background - maybe someone with more experience can point me in the right direction.

I usually stick with dark or black backgrounds, but I thought I'd try something different and see how others have gotten on.

Re: Mirrors

Originally posted by Olive

A very newbie question and I can't find it covered elsewhere in the forum although I'm sure someone more experienced might point me in the right direction....has anyone any experience of using a mirrored background?

I normally use a dark/black background but wanted to try something different and get anyone else's eperiences.

Thanks in advance

Hi Olive, I'd advise against using a mirrored background for your discus, considering their pecking hierarchy as cichlids. A mirror could create unnecessary stress for the fish. Imagine a fish fighting its own reflection - not exactly a pleasant sight.

Re: Mirrors





 
 





Hi Paul, since discus are cichlids with a pecking hierarchy I would suggest not using a mirrored background. It could be fun watching a fish fight with itself but think a mirror could be a stress source for the fish.
Pat


I agree with Pat's concern about mirrored backgrounds. I've observed discus breeders in adjacent tanks, and they get aggressive towards perceived threats to their eggs or fry. I do keep some tanks side by side to give my fish a sense of being part of a larger school – it seems to work well when they're not spawning. However, when spawning does occur, I use a screen to provide the pair with some much-needed privacy.

Re: Mirrors

I recall seeing mirrors on some of the older Pemco and Metal frame tanks. From my experience, the Discus seemed more nervous in those setups.

Re: Mirrors

Thanks for the thoughtful advice, team. I really appreciate the time you've taken to share your experiences.

I think I'll be sticking with a simple, light-coloured background instead of mirrors. It's good to know that mirrors could be a stress source for the fish.

Thanks again for your help.