Who Gives A Fish Forums

If you're on a budget, check local fish groups for used gear. I scored a Fluval 306 for $80 and a barely used heater for $20. Just sanitize everything with bleach solution before use. Also, bare-bottom tanks are easier to clean for breeding, so you can skip substrate costs.

Another thought, how's the tank cycled? Even with 0 ammonia, a new tank can have weird vibes. Also, what's your water change temp match? Sudden changes can shock them. And are you using a drip method for changes?

Yep, canisters are a no-go for fry, even on low. Sponge is the way. Also, what's your substrate? Bare bottom is easier to keep clean. And how old are the parents? Weak genetics can play a role.

Thanks, all. Gonna stick with my routine but maybe bump to 40% if nitrates creep up. Appreciate the sanity check.

Heard a lot of wild stuff about water changes for Discus, like you gotta do 90% daily or they'll croak. My crew's in a 75g with sand, driftwood, and a Fluval FX6. Been doing 50% weekly, params stable at 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 10 nitrate. They're chillin', but am I missing something?

Another thing to consider is tankmates. If you've got fast swimmers like tetras, they might be stirring up the water too much. Discus prefer calm buddies like Corydoras.

I had the same issue last year. Turns out my heater was wonky, temp kept dipping to 80 at night. Got a new one and boom, growth spurt. Also, how's the lighting? Too much can stress 'em out. Mine chill better with dimmer lights, like 6 hours a day max.


For real, temp swings are brutal. OP, you ...

Yo, sounds like your setup's mostly solid, but 4 months is sketchy if they're still tiny. What's the water change routine? Gotta do 50% at least twice a week for juvies. Also, beef heart's good but maybe cut the flakes, they're kinda weak for growth. Try more live food like blackworms if you can ...

Wild discus are overrated unless you're a hardcore enthusiast. My 75 gallon's got a mix of both, and the captive bred ones are way more active. I use a sponge filter, keep the pH at 6.5, and feed a variety of frozen foods. The wild ones hide a lot, even after months of acclimation. Not worth the ...