Who Gives A Fish Forums

I've been doing weekly 50% water changes for my Discus, but they seem stressed afterward. Tank is 75 gallons, temp at 84°F, with sand substrate and driftwood. Parameters are 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 5 nitrate. Using Seachem Prime. Am I doing something wrong?

Yo, 50% might be too much at once for them. Try splitting it into smaller changes, like 25% twice a week. Also, make sure the new water's temp matches exactly. Even a degree off can sketch them out. What's your pH stability like?

I've had Discus for years, and they're picky about water changes. How's your flow rate during the change? A strong current can stress them. I use a slow drip method over an hour, keeps 'em chill.

oldRash wrote: ↑Mon Aug 25, 2025 8:21 am I've had Discus for years, and they're picky about water changes. How's your flow rate during the change? A strong current can stress them. I use a slow drip method over an hour, keeps 'em chill.

Thanks, I'll try the drip method. My flow rate is moderate, but I'll dial it back during changes.

Drip method's solid, but don't forget to check your source water. Chloramine's a sneaky killer. Prime's good, but if your tap's got heavy metals, you might need extra filtration. Also, how often do you vacuum the substrate?

I've noticed my Discus prefer dim lighting after water changes. Maybe try reducing the light intensity for a few hours post-change. Also, are you adding any stress coat or just Prime?

Mine get weird if the new water's too soft. I buffer it with a bit of crushed coral in the filter. What's your GH and KH? Might be worth testing if you haven't.

Dodge wrote: ↑Mon Aug 25, 2025 6:28 am Yo, 50% might be too much at once for them. Try splitting it into smaller changes, like 25% twice a week. Also, make sure the new water's temp matches exactly. Even a degree off can sketch them out. What's your pH stability like?

Agreed on the temp. I use a digital thermometer to double-check. And yeah, pH swings are brutal. You testing before and after?

Honestly, I just wing it with mine and they're fine. But I've got a bunch of plants that probably help. Maybe toss in some floaters to soak up nitrates?

Plants are great, but don't rely on 'em to fix everything. How old are your Discus? Juveniles need more frequent changes than adults. And what's your feeding routine? Overfeeding can mess with water quality fast.