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why my discus has white poop?

Posted: Mon May 19, 2025 6:50 am
by hanksid
My discus has been pooping white stringy stuff for the past two days. Water params are good, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 10 nitrate. Tank is 75 gallons, temp at 84F, running a Fluval FX6. Been feeding them frozen bloodworms and beef heart mix twice a day. Anyone know what's up?

Re: why my discus has white poop?

Posted: Mon May 19, 2025 8:42 am
by thart
White poop in discus is often a sign of internal parasites like hexamita or spironucleus. Have you noticed any other symptoms like loss of appetite, clamped fins, or weight loss? I'd recommend treating with Metroplex mixed into their food. Also, increase water changes to 50% daily for a week to reduce stress. What's your current water change schedule?

Re: why my discus has white poop?

Posted: Mon May 19, 2025 10:42 am
by Lodgemaker
Yo, sounds sketchy. My boy had the same thing last month. I cut the beef heart for a bit, stuck to pellets, and it cleared up. Maybe too much rich food messes with their guts. How old's your discus?

Re: why my discus has white poop?

Posted: Mon May 19, 2025 11:36 am
by Lyn
I've seen this before. It could be stress from recent tank changes. Did you add new fish or move decor around? Also, what's your lighting schedule? Too much light can stress them out. Mine chill better with dimmer lights.

Re: why my discus has white poop?

Posted: Mon May 19, 2025 1:35 pm
by hanksid
thart wrote: Mon May 19, 2025 8:42 am White poop in discus is often a sign of internal parasites like hexamita or spironucleus. Have you noticed any other symptoms like loss of appetite, clamped fins, or weight loss? I'd recommend treating with Metroplex mixed into their food. Also, increase water changes to 50% daily for a week to reduce stress. What's your current water change schedule?
Thanks for the advice. No other symptoms yet, but I'll grab some Metroplex. I do 30% water changes twice a week. Should I bump it up?

Re: why my discus has white poop?

Posted: Mon May 19, 2025 1:53 pm
by thart
Yes, definitely increase water changes to 50% daily while treating. Parasites thrive in dirty water. Also, consider adding a UV sterilizer to your FX6 if this keeps happening. What's your substrate? Bare bottom is easier to keep clean for discus.

Re: why my discus has white poop?

Posted: Mon May 19, 2025 2:56 pm
by Lodgemaker
Lyn wrote: Mon May 19, 2025 11:36 am I've seen this before. It could be stress from recent tank changes. Did you add new fish or move decor around? Also, what's your lighting schedule? Too much light can stress them out. Mine chill better with dimmer lights.
For real, lights matter. I run mine 6 hours max. You got plants? Too many can mess with the vibe.

Re: why my discus has white poop?

Posted: Mon May 19, 2025 3:54 pm
by Lyn
Bare bottom tanks are easier, but if you've got sand, just vacuum it well during water changes. Also, what's your filter media? Old sponges can harbor bad stuff. Swap 'em out if they're past their prime.