discus breeding pair tank size

Chat about all things related to Discus, from purchasing to breeding and everything in between. One of the most beautiful species in the hobby
Post Reply
User avatar
Marksfish
Posts: 14
Joined: Fri Apr 26, 2024 1:26 pm

discus breeding pair tank size

Post by Marksfish »

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?
User avatar
Playful
Posts: 8
Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 12:42 am

Re: discus breeding pair tank size

Post by Playful »

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.
User avatar
Mixes
Posts: 5
Joined: Fri Mar 22, 2024 2:58 am

Re: discus breeding pair tank size

Post by Mixes »

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.
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.
Silvan
Posts: 9
Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 6:16 pm

Re: discus breeding pair tank size

Post by Silvan »

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.
User avatar
pioneer
Posts: 8
Joined: Wed Oct 09, 2024 11:01 pm

Re: discus breeding pair tank size

Post by pioneer »

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.
User avatar
Marksfish
Posts: 14
Joined: Fri Apr 26, 2024 1:26 pm

Re: discus breeding pair tank size

Post by Marksfish »

Thanks for the advice, everyone. I'll look into a 40-gallon setup. Any tips on tankmates or should I keep it species-only?
User avatar
Lyn
Posts: 15
Joined: Sat May 07, 2022 5:00 am

Re: discus breeding pair tank size

Post by Lyn »

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.
murse
Posts: 10
Joined: Sat Apr 27, 2024 2:09 pm

Re: discus breeding pair tank size

Post by murse »

I'd stick with just the pair. Less hassle, fewer variables to worry about. Keep the water clean, and they'll do their thing.
User avatar
Playful
Posts: 8
Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 12:42 am

Re: discus breeding pair tank size

Post by Playful »

Lyn wrote: Fri Jul 04, 2025 7:26 am 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.
Exactly. Even peaceful tankmates can become a problem during breeding. Focus on water quality and stability, and you'll have better success.
Post Reply