Is Keeping Discus Fish the Right Hobby for You?
You might have already tried putting different kinds of aquatic animals in your aquarium at your office or in your home. Maybe, not a single one of them could bring that kind of lasting pleasure you’re looking for. And so, you are once again on the prowl, looking for the best aquarium fish to keep. If you are one of them who are considering keeping discus fish but are still having some heebie-jeebies if it’s the right one for you, then welcome to this post.
The discus is by far, one of the most appealing, unique kind of fish that presents any aquarist the advantage that no other species can offer. Its bright and intricate color schemes are perhaps unparalleled in the aquarium industry. Its grace and elegance are undeniable as well. No wonder, hobbyists around the world would call discus fish the “King of the Aquarium.”
However, the success of keeping discus fish does not come easy. In many ways, these freshwater gems pose a big challenge to keep and raise. But this exactly makes the job worthwhile and fulfilling. Here’s an overview as to why the discus fish is right for you (or not).
A Costly Investment
Discus fish is among the most expensive aquarium fishes to buy in the market. Relatively, it is hard to come by with the excellent specimens. Even more so, the difficulties associated with breeding are quite apparent. Premium quality discus spawned and raised by discus breeders in California are hard to find.
Moreover, the cost of the tank where you keep these freshwater superstars is considerably high. We emphasize the fact that discus fish are sensitive and highly reactive to its environment. Slight changes of the water temperature, for instance, can bring noticeable effect to its health and appearance. Which is why, they only thrive on aquariums fitted with proper filtration and heating system.
Care and Handling
The Symphysodon is a perfect example of a shoaling fish. Keeping them in groups of at least 5 to 6 in numbers could be necessary to achieve the optimal discus appeal. But with the large population comes yet another problem and that is maintaining the water tank quality. You might find yourself constantly working on the water changes to keep the nitrate and ammonia levels low.
Food is yet another reason to consider. These cichlids are among the most picky eaters out there. They mostly prefer high protein meaty foods that come in pellets or frozen. White worms, brine shrimps, and mussels, just to name a few, can whet their appetite.
A Very Demanding Fish
The discus has the reputation to be very unforgiving to mistakes or rule bending. You can’t just compromise as to how you handle these aquatic creatures. You need to be diligent as well as committed to perform the arduous daily maintenance and care. One slip and you’d destroy the whole tank. In keeping discus fish beginners should take the initiative to learn all there is about the fish and the hobby as a whole. We advise reading books about cichlids or talking to fellow discus dish enthusiasts.
