A long time favorite of freshwater aquarium owners is the captivating discus fish. Startlingly beautiful in rich colors of gold and blue, these tropical creatures from the Amazon make a bold statement to any aquarist’s collection. Unlike many aquarium fish that hide at the sight of someone approaching, discus fish are social beings that interact with their owners and engage in their overall surroundings. Discus fish are social schooling fish that interact and enjoy other discuses company. A novice collection can easily transform into a beautiful discus fish tank collection that is both easy and rewarding.

When deciding to venture into the world of discus fish, the owner must first understand the need for space. Approximately 5 gallons per discus fish is recommended to keep fish happy and healthy. If working with an existing tank, the limitations are already established. For those investing in a new aquarium, discus fish prefer s elongated tanks, which are representative of the shallow rivers of the Amazon where they originate. Oceanic Systems are the top of the line tanks for quality in performance and presentation. Supplies from this manufacturer can also be purchased to meet the additional requirements needed by the discus fish.

Acidic levels should be kept moderate for the discus fish and water should remain between 84 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Filtration is also important, as there are many different chemical that can be released into an aquarium unknowingly and altering the sensitive pH balance of the tank. Biological filtration as is provided by the Emperor by Marineland is a fantastic way to maintain the pH balance. The goal of an effective filter is to oxygenate the water, lower carbon dioxide levels and allow colonization of nitrifying bacteria.

Discus fish are healthiest and happiest in an environment that simulates their natural habitat. Keep tanks lighted with modest light so as not to overwhelm the fish. Just as people are not as comfortable in office lighting as they are in the sun or in the light in their homes, discus fish respond similarly. To make the most of an investment in discus fish, it is important to keep up their health physically and emotionally. Full spectrum bulbs can assist in enhancing the discus fish as well as any plant life that is added to the tank.

As the discus fish are susceptible to environmental changes, regular maintenance of the aquarium will be necessary in order to ensure their longevity. Regular cleaning of the filters and checking the pH levels of the tank helps maintain discus life. In addition, scrubbing the walls of the tank to break the bond of any build of algae on the glass will also help maintain the pH balance. Thorough and consistent cleaning will ensure that the water’s acid and nitrate levels remain satisfactory to the discus.

Feeding a discus fish tank requires knowledge of what a discus fish needs to maintain its strength. Protein, minerals, fat and vitamins are all needed in a discus diet. Excess of any of these categories can throw the balance of a tank off. Hikari blood worms and brine shrimp are an excellent source of protein and contain the 50% of protein these tropic fish require. Omega One Flake and Veggie Flake Food are filling in the remainder of the diet with vitamins and minerals. Moderation of each allows the discus to remain beautiful and strong in its environment.

Begin the fantastic journey of building a discus fish tank. Transform the room the tank is placed into a magical habitat of beautiful, character filed fish. Soon a school of tropic freshwater fish will fill hearts and a home with delight.