Monthly Discus Costs
| Water Parameter | Discus Requirement | Typical Freshwater |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 82–86°F | 72–78°F |
| pH | 6.0–6.8 (soft) | 6.5–7.5 |
| GH (hardness) | 0–4 dGH | 4–12 dGH |
| Ammonia/Nitrite | 0 ppm (critical) | 0–0.25 ppm |
| Nitrate | <10 ppm | <30 ppm |
| Water Changes | 30–50% daily | 20–30% weekly |
Discus Daily Water Change Routine
Discus Care Checklist
| Do | Perform daily 30–50% water changes with temp-matched RO/tap water |
| Do | Maintain stable 82–86°F temperature at all times |
| Do | Feed high-protein diet 3–4 times daily (small portions) |
| Do | Keep in groups of 5+ (they are shoaling fish) |
| Do | Use RO or softened water — discus need very soft water |
| Do | Quarantine all new fish for 4+ weeks before adding |
| Avoid | Add discus to an uncycled tank immediately |
| Avoid | Keep with aggressive tank mates like cichlids |
Discus Fish Care Guide: The King of the Aquarium
Called the “king of the aquarium,” the discus (Symphysodon spp.) is a South American cichlid prized for its stunning round shape and vivid coloration. Originating from the Amazon basin, discus live in warm, soft, acidic blackwater rivers — and replicating those conditions in captivity is both the challenge and the reward of keeping them. This is not a beginner fish. But for experienced aquarists willing to meet their demands, discus are among the most rewarding fish in the hobby.
| Parameter | Optimal Range |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 82–86°F (28–30°C) |
| pH | 6.0–7.0 |
| Hardness (GH) | 1–8 dGH (soft water) |
| Ammonia/Nitrite | 0 ppm |
| Nitrate | <20 ppm |
| Minimum tank size | 50 gallons for a pair; 75+ for a group |
| Tank height | 18 inches minimum; taller is better |
| Water changes | 25–50% daily or every other day |
Water Quality: The Non-Negotiable
Discus are extremely sensitive to water quality. Even small spikes in ammonia or nitrite can cause stress, disease, and death. Most serious discus keepers perform 25–50% water changes daily or every other day. The water used for changes must match the temperature of the tank precisely — a cold water change can shock discus. Invest in a quality thermometer and a large water conditioner supply.
Tank Setup and Companions
Discus do best in groups of 6+ of their own kind — they are social fish and lone discus often become stressed. Ideal companions are small, peaceful fish that tolerate high temperatures: cardinal tetras, rummy-nose tetras, and Sterbai corydoras are classic choices. Avoid aggressive or nippy species. Heavily planted tanks with driftwood mimic their natural habitat and help them feel secure.
Feeding
Discus require multiple feedings daily, especially juveniles. Beef heart paste (a homemade or commercially prepared mixture) is the staple of many discus diets. Supplement with frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and quality pellets formulated for discus. Uneaten food should be removed immediately to prevent water quality decline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are discus fish difficult to keep?
Yes. Discus require very warm, soft, acidic water, pristine water quality, multiple daily feedings, and a large tank. They are not recommended for beginners.
What do discus fish eat?
Discus eat a high-protein diet: beef heart paste, high-quality discus pellets, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, and other meaty foods. They should be fed 3–5 times daily in small amounts.
How big do discus fish get?
Discus can grow to 8–10 inches in diameter when kept in optimal conditions. A proper discus tank should be tall (18 inches or more) as well as wide to accommodate their body shape.