Who Gives A Fish Forums

My discus laid eggs again, but they never hatch. Water params are good, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, nitrate around 10 ppm. Tank is 75 gallons, temp at 84F, soft water with pH 6.5. Parents are healthy, been feeding them beef heart and bloodworms. What's the deal?

Sorry to hear that. Have you checked for fungus on the eggs? Sometimes a methylene blue dip can help prevent it. Also, are the parents first-time breeders? They might eat the eggs if they're inexperienced.

84F is a bit high for breeding. Try lowering it to 82F. Also, what's your TDS? Discus eggs need soft water, below 100 ppm. If it's too high, the eggs won't develop properly.

This is why discus are overrated. Too finicky. Just get angelfish instead.

Haterw wrote: ↑Tue Jul 22, 2025 12:29 am This is why discus are overrated. Too finicky. Just get angelfish instead.

That's not helpful. Discus are rewarding if you put in the work. OP, are you using a sponge filter? Strong currents can stress the parents and damage the eggs.

I had the same issue until I added more cover. Discus like privacy when breeding. Try adding some broad-leaf plants or a breeding cone if you haven't already.

Yo, sounds like your setup's mostly solid, but maybe the parents are just sketchy. Some pairs take a few tries to get it right. Keep at it, and they'll figure it out.

Wildman wrote: ↑Tue Jul 22, 2025 12:19 am 84F is a bit high for breeding. Try lowering it to 82F. Also, what's your TDS? Discus eggs need soft water, below 100 ppm. If it's too high, the eggs won't develop properly.

Yep, TDS is key. Also, make sure your water changes are consistent. Sudden changes can mess with the eggs.

Are you using RO water? Tap water might have trace elements that affect egg development. Also, how old are the parents? Younger pairs sometimes struggle with fertilization.

Thanks for the advice, everyone. I'll try lowering the temp and checking TDS. Parents are about 2 years old, so not super young. Gonna add more plants too.