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I've got a 75-gallon tank with six Discus and was thinking of adding some Tiger Barbs. Heard mixed things about their compatibility. My water's at 84°F, pH 6.8, and I do 30% water changes twice a week. Anyone tried this combo before?

Tiger Barbs can be nippy, especially in smaller groups. I'd recommend at least eight to spread out aggression. Your temp and pH are solid for Discus, but Barbs prefer it a tad cooler, around 78–82°F. Might be a weird vibe for them long-term.

My buddy tried this in a 55-gallon and it was a disaster. The Barbs kept messing with the Discus' fins. He ended up moving the Barbs to another tank after like two weeks. Not worth the hassle, imo.

Barbs are active, Discus are chill. That's the main issue. If you're dead set on it, try Cherry Barbs instead—they're less aggressive. But honestly, I'd stick to peaceful tankmates like Cardinals or Rams. Your Discus will thank you.

Thanks for the input, everyone. Gonna skip the Barbs and look into Rams instead. Appreciate the advice!

Smart move. Rams are way better suited. I've got a pair of Blue Rams with my Discus in a 90-gallon, and they're totally chill together. Just make sure your water's soft—Rams don't cut it in hard water.

Yeah, Rams are a safer bet. My Discus share a tank with some Bolivian Rams, and they get along fine. No fin nipping, no stress. Just keep up with those water changes, and you're golden.

Fuegoz wrote: ↑Sat Aug 09, 2025 11:07 am Smart move. Rams are way better suited. I've got a pair of Blue Rams with my Discus in a 90-gallon, and they're totally chill together. Just make sure your water's soft—Rams don't cut it in hard water.

Yep, soft water's key. My tap's super hard, so I mix it with RO. Pain in the butt, but worth it for happy fish.

I've never kept Barbs, but my Discus are super sensitive to tankmates. Even Tetras sometimes stress them out. Maybe it's just my group, but I'd err on the side of caution.

Same here. My Discus are in a species-only tank now after a failed attempt with Corys. They're just too delicate for most other fish, imo.