Discus fish are known for their vibrant colors and unique personalities, but they can be sensitive to changes in water quality. Here are some water parameters that are important to maintain when keeping discus fish.
Temperature: Discus fish prefer warm water with a temperature range of 82°F to 86°F (28°C to 30°C). It’s important to maintain a consistent water temperature within this range to help prevent stress and disease.
pH: Discus fish prefer slightly acidic water with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It’s important to monitor the pH regularly and make slight adjustments as needed to ensure that the pH does not swing drastically. If your Discus are acclimated to a pH out of this range, it is important to not chase your pH.
Hardness: Discus fish prefer soft water with a low to moderate hardness level. Ideally, the water hardness should be between 1 and 8 dGH.
Ammonia, Nitrite, and Nitrate: It’s important to monitor the levels of ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate in the aquarium regularly. Ammonia and nitrite should be 0 ppm, while nitrate should be kept below 20 ppm.
Water Changes: Regular water changes are important to maintain good water quality in the aquarium. Aim to change 25% to 50% of the water every week to help remove toxins and waste products from the tank. Remember, maintaining stable water parameters is key to keeping discus fish healthy and happy. It’s important to test the water regularly and make adjustments as needed to ensure that the water quality remains within the ideal range for discus fish.
