Discus Fish
Discus fish are renowned for their captivating beauty, making them the epitome of elegance in the aquatic world. These stunning freshwater fish boast vibrant colors, mesmerizing patterns, and a unique, disc-shaped body that sets them apart. Hailing from the Amazon River basin, Discus is a prized possession for experienced aquarists seeking a challenging yet rewarding hobby.
While their allure is undeniable, Discus fishes are delicate creatures demanding meticulous care. They thrive in soft, acidic water with precise temperature and water quality parameters. Creating an ideal environment for these aquatic gems requires a deep understanding of their needs. However, the effort is rewarded with a breathtaking spectacle as these fish gracefully glide through your aquarium tank.
Discover the allure of different types of Discus fish and embark on an aquatic adventure filled with color, complexity, and the satisfaction of nurturing these living masterpieces. Our collection features a variety of strains, from classic to exotic, allowing you to create a truly unique underwater world.
Care Guide for Discus Fish
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Tank Size: Given their size and the need for pristine water conditions, Discus requires a spacious aquarium. A minimum tank size of 75 gallons is recommended for a small group. Larger fish tanks allow for better water quality and reduced stress.
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Discus Fish Water Parameters: Discus aquarium fish are highly sensitive to water quality. Aim for soft, acidic water with a pH of 6.0-7.0, hardness of 1-4° dKH, and a temperature of 82-86°F (28-30°C). Regular, large water changes are essential to maintain optimal conditions.
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Filtration: A high-quality filtration system is crucial. Consider a canister filter with multiple stages of filtration to remove impurities and maintain water clarity.
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Aquarium Setup: Create a calming environment with subdued aquarium lighting, smooth water flow, and ample hiding spots using large-leafed aquatic plants and driftwood.
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Diet: Discus are carnivorous and require a high-protein diet. Offer a variety of fish food like live, frozen fish food, or high-quality flake foods. Feeding multiple times a day in small amounts is recommended.
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Discus Fish Tank Mates: Due to their sensitive nature, Discus fish species are best kept in a species-only tank. However, a careful selection of compatible tankmates like peaceful catfish or small tetras can be considered.
FAQs
Are Discus fish aggressive?
Discus are generally peaceful, but like many cichlids, they can exhibit territorial behavior, especially during breeding or when establishing a hierarchy. Providing ample space and avoiding overcrowding can help minimize aggression.
How often should I change the water in a Discus tank?
Regular, large water changes (25-50% weekly) are essential to maintain optimal water conditions.
Can Discus fish live with other fish?
While Discus are often best kept in a species-only tank due to their sensitive nature, carefully selected tankmates can add visual interest to your aquarium as different Tetras species like Cardinal Tetra, Rummy Nose Tetra, and Ember Tetras, Cory Catfish, and Rainbowfish.
Testimonials
Let customers speak for us
These discus are so so wonderful! :) They come to the front of the tank, they're very happy and healthy. We bought them a little over a week ago and they are so great. Highly recommend! We also bought some betta fish for our sorority here and they are also great!
They are happy, very active a week later in two 10 gal dirted tanks @ 74 deg F. and doing well. They came wrapped in a wet paper towel in separate little plastic bags...I never saw shipping done this way before but it works well, and saves weight.
I ordered the 2 premium Bettas from Splashy fish recently and they are thriving. The owner was very cooperative with shipping my fishes at an opportune time after Hurricane Milton hit our area. Great experience...highly recommend Splashy Fish!
Seachem Prime Fresh and Saltwater Conditioner
So i had the worker hunt me down a female hillstream which she did with no problem at all, I really appreciated it. The little one seems healthy, she wonders the quarentine tank for food which is a great sign, flashes a little but i know how picky some hillstreams are with water quality and bare bottoms. Overall the hillstream is healthy and the worker was super accommodating.
You do get what you pay for and my 2 Betta purchases from Splashy Fish can attest to that. Great experience and really awesome fish. Can't thank you enough.
The Splashy team was very friendly and knowledgeable. We have always been satisfied with the quality and health of fish purchased from Splashy.
I have been to Splashy Fish twice now. Their animals are well cared for and they have a nice selection of fresh water fish and some crayfish. I am not a Betta person but they seem to have a dazzling and beautiful selection of them. In addition I was told that they breed some of their stock which is great for hobby and the environment from which their fish originate. I met the owner today and got some good advice on setting up my tank after a move. I have purchased fish, plants, and decor from them. They are a friendly and helpful locally owned business. It is clear that they are much more committed to keeping their animals healthy than the big box pet stores. They will be my regular aquarium store from now on.
The White Cloud Minnows I purchased are eating well and growing fast. I enjoy watching them forage.
Staff was friendly and knowledgeable. They walked me through a ton of options for my tank. Amazing experience definitely headed back there.
Splashy Fish is one of the few aquarium-only shops around the beltway. They have a great selection of fish, plants, soil, test kits. Family enjoys talking to the knowledgeable staff about general aquarium maintenance
Splashy has an amazing selection of healthy fish. I revitalized my tanks with unique tetras and rasboras! All very healthy fish. Will always come back.
I think that they have great customer service. I personally found everything I wanted there. They also have really cool fish there. Something I do want to point out is, all their plants in the fridge were dead. At la least when I was there. But love everything else.
