When we first got into Discus, we didn’t really know what we were signing up for. We thought, how hard could it be? Keep the tank clean, feed them well, done. Right?

Not quite.

Discus fish are some of the most rewarding fish you’ll ever care for, but they don’t come with training wheels. They’re not impossible. You don’t need a science degree. But they do need your attention. They need consistency. And more than anything, they need you to care.

This blog isn’t written by scientists or copywriters. It’s written by fish lovers. People who’ve lost fish, learned from mistakes, and stuck with it because the beauty of Discus makes every ounce of effort worth it.

So here’s our beginner’s guide, not a perfect checklist, but a real-world look at what we wish we knew when we started.

1. Start with a Bigger Tank Than You Think

If someone tells you that a group of Discus can live in a small tank, don’t listen.

Discus are big. They grow fast. They eat a lot. They produce waste. And they like to swim in open water. We recommend starting with at least a 55-gallon aquarium if you want them to feel at home. If you can go larger, do it.

Bigger tanks are easier to manage. Water stays more stable. Temperatures don’t swing as much. And your fish will be healthier and happier.

2. Water Quality Isn’t Optional

This one’s huge. If your water isn’t right, your Discus will let you know. And not in a subtle way.

They’ll hide. They’ll stop eating. Their color will fade. They’ll tilt to one side. This is where beginners panic, and we get it. But most of the time, it’s a water issue.

Keep the water warm, 82 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit is the sweet spot. Use a thermometer you can trust. Change the water often. We do 30 to 50 percent water changes a few times a week. It sounds like a lot, but once you get in the habit, it takes less than 15 minutes.

Test your water regularly. You want low ammonia and nitrites, and your nitrates should stay under 20 ppm.

Good water is good health. It’s that simple.

3. Feed Quality, Not Quantity

When you look at a tank full of hungry eyes, it’s easy to overfeed. We’ve done it. You throw in a little extra, then a little more, then realize there’s food rotting in the corner by morning.

Discus do best with small, consistent meals. We like feeding them two to three times a day with high-quality food like frozen bloodworms, beef heart, or specially formulated Discus pellets. The food should be rich in protein and made to enhance color.

Never feed them random tropical fish flakes. It won’t meet their needs. Think of them like athletes. They need clean fuel.

4. They’re Social. So Don’t Buy Just One.

Discus fish don’t want to be alone. They’re schooling fish. A group of six or more is ideal.

If you only get one or two, you might see aggression, hiding, or stress. In a group, they create a hierarchy. It helps them feel safe. It helps them settle in faster. Watching a group of healthy Discus swimming together is honestly one of the most peaceful things you can see in an aquarium. Don’t miss out on that just to save a little space or money.

5. Stay Consistent

This one’s hard, but it’s everything.

Discus hate change. Sudden temperature drops, skipped water changes, loud sounds, inconsistent feeding, it all adds up. They’re sensitive, and that sensitivity is what makes them magical and maddening all at once.

Set a routine. Stick to it. If something’s off, take your time to fix it. Your fish will notice, and they’ll reward you with health, color, and confidence.

6. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help

We’ve had tanks crash. We’ve had fish get sick. We’ve made mistakes. And every time, we learned something that made us better keepers.

That’s why we started TruDiscus, to help people avoid the stuff we learned the hard way. When you buy from us, you’re not just getting a fish in a box. You’re getting people behind the scenes who know these fish, love these fish, and want to see them thrive in your tank.

Have a question? Ask. You’re not bothering us. We’d rather talk now than hear your tank didn’t make it.

The Truth About Discus

The truth is, Discus is a challenge. But that’s what makes them so special.

They’re not for people who want a set-it-and-forget-it pet. They’re for people who enjoy the process. Who wants something living and beautiful that responds to care and patience.

They give back what you put in. And they make your space feel more alive.

There’s no shortcut, no cheat code. But if you stick with it, you’ll get something rare.

A colorful, peaceful, living centerpiece.
 A moment of stillness.
 A little piece of true beauty swimming in your home.

That’s the magic of Discus.