discus breeding pair tank size
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Marksfish - Posts: 14
- Joined: Fri Apr 26, 2024 1:26 pm
discus breeding pair tank size
I'm setting up a tank for a breeding pair and wanna know if a 30-gallon is enough. They're about 5 inches each, and I've got a sponge filter, sand substrate, and some driftwood. Water's at 84°F, pH 6.5. Should I go bigger or is this fine?
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Playful - Posts: 8
- Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 12:42 am
Re: discus breeding pair tank size
A 30-gallon might cut it, but I'd recommend at least 40 gallons. Breeding pairs need space to establish territory, and cramped conditions can stress them out. I've had success with a 45-gallon, bare bottom for easy cleaning, and a canister filter. Keep up with daily water changes, around 20%, to maintain water quality.
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Mixes - Posts: 5
- Joined: Fri Mar 22, 2024 2:58 am
Re: discus breeding pair tank size
I agree. A larger tank gives them room to spawn without feeling crowded. My pair did well in a 40-gallon with a few Java ferns and a sponge filter. Water changes are key, though.Playful wrote: ↑Fri Jul 04, 2025 2:53 am A 30-gallon might cut it, but I'd recommend at least 40 gallons. Breeding pairs need space to establish territory, and cramped conditions can stress them out. I've had success with a 45-gallon, bare bottom for easy cleaning, and a canister filter. Keep up with daily water changes, around 20%, to maintain water quality.
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Silvan - Posts: 9
- Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 6:16 pm
Re: discus breeding pair tank size
Yo, 30's kinda sketchy for breeding. They're gonna need more space to do their thing. I'd bump it up to 40 or 50 gallons, throw in some plants, and keep the water pristine. Mine chilled out way more after I upgraded.
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pioneer - Posts: 8
- Joined: Wed Oct 09, 2024 11:01 pm
Re: discus breeding pair tank size
I used a 30-gallon for my first pair, but they never spawned. Switched to a 55-gallon, and now they're laying eggs every few weeks. Tank size definitely matters.
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Marksfish - Posts: 14
- Joined: Fri Apr 26, 2024 1:26 pm
Re: discus breeding pair tank size
Thanks for the advice, everyone. I'll look into a 40-gallon setup. Any tips on tankmates or should I keep it species-only?
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Lyn - Posts: 15
- Joined: Sat May 07, 2022 5:00 am
Re: discus breeding pair tank size
Species-only is safest. Other fish can mess with the eggs or stress the pair. I've seen tetras nip at fry, so it's better to play it safe.
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murse - Posts: 10
- Joined: Sat Apr 27, 2024 2:09 pm
Re: discus breeding pair tank size
I'd stick with just the pair. Less hassle, fewer variables to worry about. Keep the water clean, and they'll do their thing.
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Playful - Posts: 8
- Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 12:42 am
Re: discus breeding pair tank size
Exactly. Even peaceful tankmates can become a problem during breeding. Focus on water quality and stability, and you'll have better success.