Who Gives A Fish Forums

My Discus have been hanging out near the bottom of the tank for the past couple days. Water params are good, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, nitrate around 10 ppm. Tank is a 75 gallon with sand substrate, driftwood, and some Java ferns. Temp is steady at 84°F, running a Fluval FX6. They're usually more active, so this is weird. Anyone got ideas?

Sounds sketchy, dude. How's their appetite? Mine did that once when I slacked on water changes. You running CO2? Could be low O2 if they're gasping. Check the gills, maybe up the surface agitation.

Mine did that after I added new tankmates. Could be stress from crowding or aggression. What other fish are in there? Also, how old are they? Juveniles hide more.

I'd double-check the temp with a second thermometer. Sometimes heaters fail or give false readings. Also, any recent changes to the tank? New decor, filter media, or food?

Hope they perk up soon! Maybe try dimming the lights for a bit? Mine get shy if the lighting's too bright. What's your photoperiod like?

Yo, mine did this when the pH dropped. You test that lately? Also, what kinda sand you using? Some types mess with the water chemistry.

Purrer wrote: ↑Wed Aug 27, 2025 11:20 pm Yo, mine did this when the pH dropped. You test that lately? Also, what kinda sand you using? Some types mess with the water chemistry.

Good point. Pool filter sand is inert, but some substrates leach minerals. What's your pH and KH?

Might just be a weird phase. Mine chilled at the bottom for a week once, then bounced back. You feeding 'em anything new? Beef heart can sometimes cause bloating.

How often are you doing water changes? Discus are sensitive to dissolved organics. I'd recommend 50% twice a week if you're not already.

Mine did this when the filter flow was too strong. Maybe dial back the FX6 if it's cranked up? They like calm water.