is my discus too thin?

[garden]

I've had my discus for about 6 months now, and they're not filling out like I expected. They're in a 75-gallon tank with sand substrate, a Fluval 407 filter, and a heater set to 84°F. I do 50% water changes twice a week, and params are 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 10 nitrate. They get fed frozen bloodworms and beef heart mix twice a day. Is this normal, or should I be worried?

[maverick]

How old were they when you got them? Juveniles can take a while to bulk up, especially if they weren't well-started. Also, what's their behavior like? Are they active, or do they kinda just chill in one spot? That can tell you a lot about their health.

[taieta]

I've had my discus for about 6 months now, and they're not filling out like I expected. They're in a 75-gallon tank with sand substrate, a Fluval 407 filter, and a heater set to 84°F. I do 50% water changes twice a week, and params are 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 10 nitrate. They get fed frozen bloodworms and beef heart mix twice a day. Is this normal, or should I be worried?

Your setup sounds solid, but beef heart alone isn't enough. Try adding some high-protein pellets or live blackworms. Also, check for internal parasites—thin discus can be a sign of worms. Have you treated with Metroplex or PraziPro before?

[Blazer]

Mine looked skinny too until I started feeding more. Maybe try upping to three times a day?

[UTESO]

Agree with taieta on the parasite check. Thinness plus good water and feeding often points to worms. I'd dose PraziPro as a precaution. Also, what's your lighting schedule? Too much light can stress them and affect appetite.

[garden]

Thanks for the advice, everyone. I'll try adding pellets and look into PraziPro. They're active and eat well, just not growing much. Got them at about 2 inches, now they're around 3.5.

[maverick]

Thanks for the advice, everyone. I'll try adding pellets and look into PraziPro. They're active and eat well, just not growing much. Got them at about 2 inches, now they're around 3.5.

That growth rate's a bit slow for 6 months. Might be genetics if they're from a sketchy breeder. But yeah, bump up the food variety and see if that helps.

[taieta]

If they're active and eating, that's a good sign. Just keep an eye on their poop—white or stringy means worms for sure. Also, what's your tankmate situation? Crowding can stunt growth.

[Blazer]

Mine are with tetras and corys. No issues.

[UTESO]

If they're active and eating, that's a good sign. Just keep an eye on their poop—white or stringy means worms for sure. Also, what's your tankmate situation? Crowding can stunt growth.

Second this. Overstocking's a silent killer. Even if params are good, stress hormones can mess with growth.