discus hiding during the day

[Riseup]

My discus have been hiding all day lately, and it's sketchy. Tank's a 75 gallon, temp at 84F, pH 6.8, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 10 nitrate. They're about 4 inches, fed twice daily with frozen bloodworms and flakes. Got some driftwood and Amazon swords, but they're just chilling in the back. No new tankmates, just 6 discus and a few tetras. Filter's a Fluval 407, weekly 30% water changes. What's the deal?

[Coralite]

That's rough, man. Sounds like your water's on point, so maybe it's the lighting? Bright lights can freak 'em out. Try dimming it or adding floating plants like frogbit. My discus used to hide till I switched to a softer LED. Also, check if the tetras are messing with 'em. Even peaceful fish can be jerks sometimes.

[basis]

That's rough, man. Sounds like your water's on point, so maybe it's the lighting? Bright lights can freak 'em out. Try dimming it or adding floating plants like frogbit. My discus used to hide till I switched to a softer LED. Also, check if the tetras are messing with 'em. Even peaceful fish can be jerks sometimes.

Yep, lighting's a big one. I run my lights for only 6 hours now, and my discus are way more active. Also, how old's your driftwood? Fresh wood can leach tannins, which might stress 'em if it's new.

[talon]

Mine did the same thing after I added a new piece of decor. Took 'em a week to adjust. Maybe your swords are too dense? Try trimming 'em back so they've got more open space. Discus like room to cruise, not just hide.

[Sand]

Agree with the lighting comments. Also, what's your feeding routine? If they're not coming out for food, that's a red flag. Try feeding at the same times daily to build a routine. And double-check your heater's not flickering temps—even small swings can spook 'em.

[Riseup]

Thanks for the tips, y'all. Gonna cut the light cycle and see if that helps. Driftwood's been in for months, so that's not it. Tetras are chill, but I'll keep an eye. Appreciate it!

[Coralite]

Keep us posted, man. Discus can be divas, but they usually bounce back once you figure out their weird vibe.