Discus Fish Care: A Comprehensive Guide Discus fish, often called the “King of the Aquarium,” are beautiful and captivating, but they demand specific care and attention to thrive. 1. Tank Setup: Size: Discus need ample space, with a minimum of 55 gallons for a small group, but 75 gallons or larger is ideal. Water Parameters: They prefer warm, soft, and acidic water: Temperature: 82-86°F (28-30°C). pH: 6.0-7.0. Hardness: 1-4° dKH (18-70 ppm). Filtration: A robust filtration system, ideally a canister filter with a sponge pre-filter, is crucial for maintaining water quality. Substrate and Decor: Fine sand or smooth gravel, along with driftwood and broadleaf plants like Amazon swords and Java ferns, mimic their natural habitat. Lighting: Moderate lighting is preferred, avoiding bright or direct light that can stress the fish. 2. Water Quality and Maintenance: Water Changes: Regular water changes (25-50% weekly) are essential to remove waste and maintain pristine water conditions. Testing: Regularly test water parameters like ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, pH, and temperature to ensure they are within the ideal range. Avoid Fluctuations: Discus are sensitive to sudden changes in water parameters, so stability is key. 3. Diet and Feeding: Omnivorous Diet: Discus thrive on a varied diet, including high-quality flakes or pellets specifically formulated for discus, along with frozen or live foods. Favorite Foods: Bloodworms, brine shrimp, and beef heart (though not a natural food) are often relished. Feeding Frequency: Feed small portions 2-3 times daily, removing any uneaten food. 4. Behavior and Social Needs: Social Fish: Discus prefer to be kept in groups of 5 or more. Peaceful but Territorial: While generally peaceful, they can be territorial, especially during breeding. Observe for Stress: Signs of stress include hiding, clamped fins, loss of appetite, and erratic swimming. 5. Tankmates: Careful Selection: Choose tankmates that tolerate the same water parameters and are peaceful. Compatible Species: Cardinal tetras, rummy-nose tetras, Corydoras catfish, and some dwarf cichlids are potential tankmates. Avoid Aggressors: Avoid larger, aggressive fish or fast-moving species that may outcompete discus for food. 6. Disease Prevention and Treatment: Maintain Water Quality: Good water quality is the best defense against disease. Quarantine New Fish: Always quarantine new discus before introducing them to the main tank. Recognize Symptoms: Be vigilant for signs of disease like fin rot, cloudy eyes, or loss of appetite. Consult an Expert: If you suspect a disease, consult a veterinarian or experienced discus keeper for diagnosis and treatment. Note: This guide provides general information. Always research and adjust care based on your specific discus and their needs.