Setting up an aquarium for discus fish requires balancing aesthetics with functionality. Here are key points and recommendations:
I. Choosing the Aquarium Background
Light-colored backgrounds (white is recommended):
Enhance the contrast of the fish’s colors, making it easier to observe their condition.
Reduce the likelihood of fish being startled and encourage them to swim facing viewers.
Can be paired with blue-white or orange-blue gradients to boost visual appeal.
Suitability of dark-colored backgrounds:
Ideal for albino varieties (e.g., Albino Golden Discus) or wild discus, as they make their colors appear more vivid.
II. Suggestions for Aquascape Styles
Bare tank + driftwood (beginner’s top choice):
Easy to clean, reducing the risk of dirt buildup.
Pair with a sponge filter to maintain stable water quality.
South American aquascape (advanced option):
Use a thin layer of substrate + driftwood + iron tree leaves to create a natural vibe.
Regularly clean the substrate to prevent waste accumulation.
Can be paired with tetra fish (e.g., Royal Blue Tetras) to add dynamic movement.
III. Key Points for Water Quality Maintenance
Disinfection:
For new tanks, it’s advisable to quarantine with methylene blue.
For used tanks, thoroughly disinfect with potassium permanganate.
Filtration system:
Prioritize designs with no dead spots to ensure even water flow.
Lighting selection:
White light or color-enhancing lights (e.g., Ma Yin lights) work best; avoid blue-white or pink-white lights.
IV. Reference for Tankmate Compatibility
Angelfish series:
Species like Egyptian Angelfish and Red-eyed Diamond Angelfish—ensure the tank has sufficient space.
Tetras/small fish:
Fish like Neon Tetras and Cardinal Tetras—pay attention to size differences.
V. Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Steer clear of overly complex aquascapes that make cleaning difficult, especially for beginners.
Dark backgrounds may dull the coloration of regular discus—choose cautiously.
When transferring fish to a new tank, fully acclimate them to the water temperature and parameters to reduce stress.