Breeding Discus Fish - Important Things to Consider

Hobbyist and pet lovers do not only love having their Discus fish at home or in their aquariums, but some also have ventured in breeding Discus fish. Aside from producing more colorful fishes, breeding them can also be a source of extra income.

However, breeding this type of fish can be a challenge as there are important considerations you have to take note. It is also important that before you go into breeding Discus fish, make sure that you are familiar with their behavior especially when it comes to their mating.

Here are things that you need to consider if you want to venture into breeding Discus fish.

- Make sure you have the right fish tank for the breeding. A minimum 20-gallon fish tank is fine for the breeding, as this will give enough space for the Discus pairs. You can put 2 pairs of Discus fish or more for breeding, as it is not also good have fewer than four Discus in the aquarium. Take note that these fishes live in groups in their natural habitat so you may not want a lonely pair of Discus in your fish tank.

- Keep the tank simple and clean. Do not overcrowd your tank with ornaments. A few plants for them to hide will do and do not forget to provide an area for them to lay their eggs it can be a slate or a vertical structure where they can lay their eggs.

- Always keep the water clean and at the right temperature. Breeding Discus fish requires clean water and it is very important not to forget this. You can change a portion of the water each day and make sure you do not leave food particles in the tank to keep it clean. Clean water will also improve the appetite of the Discus. The water temperature should also be monitored and checked. The ideal water temperature in breeding Discus fish is at 86 degrees Fahrenheit and make sure also that the acidity of the water is monitored. Some bred Discus thrives in less acidic water unlike the wild ones, so you may want to consider the acidity of the water during breeding.

- In feeding your fish during mating, make sure they have the necessary nutrient requirement to make your fishes healthy enough for breeding. Obviously, this will also prevent them from illnesses that can hamper their breeding.

- When eventually the breeding is successful, you have also to consider having a separate aquarium for the fry to avoid parasites that may transfer from adults. Do not also forget to give the young fishes the nutrition they need in growing up.

- If your first trial is not successful, be patient. Breeding Discus fish can take time. You may try again the next time but make sure that you still have given them what they need in mating. Prepare a checklist for you in breeding Discus fish. This will help you make sure you do not forget an important thing in their mating.

Indeed, breeding Discus fish can be challenging but once you have mastered the fish's behavior and their breeding needs, this can be a very easy and rewarding task.