Big discus tank

[Ace]

I'm upgrading from a 176 corner tank to a 420 gallon tank tonight. I've got 16 discus, ranging from 2.5-4 inches, and I plan on getting more. But I've come across some info saying it's not ideal to grow them out in a large tank. Should I finish growing them out in my 176 or will they be fine in the bigger tank? I've been doing 50-75% water changes every other day, and my current setup is a bare bottom tank with plants in pots.

[lunar]

For growing out discus, I think a 40-50g tank is the way to go. Less water to change, same results. I personally use a 50g for grow out. But honestly, what's really catching my eye is your pup - what breed is it?

[Ace]

Thanks for the advice, lunar. 176 it is for a while then. That 420's gonna be tough to keep empty though.

[lunar]

Re: Big discus tank

Makes sense to grow out in a smaller tank, it'll take some time to get the big one ready anyway. A 40-50g is the way to go, not the 176. Water changes are easier, food is concentrated, so all the discus get a fair share. Don't want them burning energy chasing food all over a 176. They'll probably grow faster in the smaller tank. Once they hit 4.5-5", you can move them to the bigger tank. That smaller tank will come in handy as a qt and hospital tank. You'll need it for other things too - discus require a main tank and a smaller qt/hospital tank.

[lunar]

Re: Big discus tank

I personally think 4.5-5” is a great size to transfer them. They'll still have room to grow in the bigger tank.