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discus breeding tank setup cost
Posted: Tue Jun 10, 2025 11:27 am
by murse
I'm planning to set up a breeding tank for my Discus and wanna know what the total cost might be. I've got a 55-gallon tank already, but need everything else: filters, heaters, substrate, plants, and maybe a backup generator. What's the ballpark for a solid setup?
Re: discus breeding tank setup cost
Posted: Tue Jun 10, 2025 12:56 pm
by dudekay
For a 55-gallon breeding setup, you're looking at around $500-$800 depending on quality. A good canister filter like Fluval 307 runs $150, a reliable heater like Eheim Jager is $50, and substrate (sand or fine gravel) is $30-$50. Plants like Amazon swords or Java ferns add another $50-$100. Don't skimp on the heater or filter, Discus are picky.
Re: discus breeding tank setup cost
Posted: Tue Jun 10, 2025 1:32 pm
by jovial
dudekay wrote: ↑Tue Jun 10, 2025 12:56 pm
For a 55-gallon breeding setup, you're looking at around $500-$800 depending on quality. A good canister filter like Fluval 307 runs $150, a reliable heater like Eheim Jager is $50, and substrate (sand or fine gravel) is $30-$50. Plants like Amazon swords or Java ferns add another $50-$100. Don't skimp on the heater or filter, Discus are picky.
Yep, and if you wanna go fancy with a backup generator, that's another $200-$300. But honestly, a battery-powered air pump ($20) can cut it for short outages.
Re: discus breeding tank setup cost
Posted: Tue Jun 10, 2025 2:01 pm
by Trick
Don't forget water conditioners and test kits. A good liquid test kit like API Freshwater Master is $30, and Seachem Prime is $15 for a small bottle. You'll also need a TDS meter ($20) if you're serious about breeding. Discus fry need super clean water, so factor in extra for frequent water changes.
Re: discus breeding tank setup cost
Posted: Tue Jun 10, 2025 3:14 pm
by Boldly
Man, this sounds pricey. Could I just use a sponge filter and call it a day? My Discus are chill in the community tank, but I wanna try breeding 'em without breaking the bank.
Re: discus breeding tank setup cost
Posted: Tue Jun 10, 2025 4:11 pm
by thart
Boldly wrote: ↑Tue Jun 10, 2025 3:14 pm
Man, this sounds pricey. Could I just use a sponge filter and call it a day? My Discus are chill in the community tank, but I wanna try breeding 'em without breaking the bank.
Sponge filters work fine for breeding tanks, but you'll need two ($40 total) plus an air pump ($30). Just keep up with daily 10% water changes and feed high-protein foods like beef heart. The fry need pristine water, so don't cut corners.
Re: discus breeding tank setup cost
Posted: Tue Jun 10, 2025 4:40 pm
by murse
Thanks for the breakdown, everyone. I'll start with the basics and add the generator later. Appreciate the help!
Re: discus breeding tank setup cost
Posted: Tue Jun 10, 2025 5:03 pm
by Dodge
If you're on a budget, check local fish groups for used gear. I scored a Fluval 306 for $80 and a barely used heater for $20. Just sanitize everything with bleach solution before use. Also, bare-bottom tanks are easier to clean for breeding, so you can skip substrate costs.
Re: discus breeding tank setup cost
Posted: Tue Jun 10, 2025 6:32 pm
by soup
I went bare-bottom with my breeding tank and it's way easier to keep clean. Spent about $400 total, including a secondhand canister filter. My Discus paired up quick, so it's worth the investment if you're serious.
Re: discus breeding tank setup cost
Posted: Tue Jun 10, 2025 8:10 pm
by Guard
Bare-bottom is the way to go. Less hassle, cheaper, and you can spot uneaten food faster. Just add some PVC pipes or clay pots for hiding spots. Costs like $10 for pipes or $20 for pots.