How to Add New Discus Fish to Your Tank

A Complete Guide for Healthy and Stress-Free Introduction

Most new fish-keeping hobbyists are fascinated by discus fish upon first sight. However, after researching or inquiring about these fish, they often hear that they are difficult to care for. Is this really the case?

Discus fish are not that hard to keep as long as you understand the basics of fish keeping and avoid some important mistakes that are not forgiven by the Discus fish. In this article, I will guide you about your first steps in keeping Discus and how to add new Discus fish to your tank.

It is important to know about what to expect when you get a new Discus fish as the first days of your new Discus in the tank can be frustrating for new Discus keepers.

Adding new Discus fish to your aquarium is an exciting step for any fish keeper — but it’s also one of the most delicate. Discus fish are known for their stunning colors, graceful swimming, and somewhat sensitive nature. Introducing new fish without proper care can lead to stress, disease outbreaks, or territorial aggression.

How to add new Discus fish to your tank?

Proper acclimation of your new Discus is a key to passing the first days of your fish safely. Here's how to do it:

Floating the bag: Begin by floating the bag containing the discus fish in the new tank for about 15-30 minutes, allowing the temperature of the water in the bag to slowly adjust to that of the tank.
Gradually add tank water: After the bag has been floating for about 15-30 minutes, add a small amount of the new tank water to the bag every 5-10 minutes. This will help acclimate the fish to the new water conditions and reduce the risk of shock.
Netting and releasing: After about an hour of acclimation, use a net to gently transfer the discus fish from the bag to the tank. Be sure to gently release the fish into the water, avoiding any sudden movements or splashing.
Monitoring behavior: Observe the fish's behavior over the next few hours to ensure they are adjusting well to the new tank. If they appear to be struggling or if you notice any signs of illness, you should take steps to address the problem immediately.

It's important to note that acclimation is a slow and gradual process and should not be rushed. Taking the time to properly acclimate your new discus fish will help ensure a smooth transition and a happy and healthy addition to your tank.

What to expect from your new Discus fish during their first days?

During the first few days in their new tank, your discus fish may exhibit a variety of behaviors, including:

Hiding: It is normal for discus fish to spend the first few days in their new tank hiding in caves, plants, or other hiding places. This is a natural response to the stress of being in a new environment.

Swimming slowly: Your new discus fish may also swim slowly or seem lethargic during their first few days in the new tank. This is also normal, as they are adjusting to the new environment and water conditions.

Refusing to eat: Discus fish may also refuse to eat during their first few days in their new tank. This is nothing to worry about, as long as they start eating within a few days. you can encourage them to eat by introducing live blood worms or brine shrimp but be careful to add a few amounts as they will not eat all of them at the beginning.

Testing the water: Discus fish may spend a lot of time testing the water in their new tank, adjusting to the water conditions, and exploring their new home.

Be patient, don't panic or frustrate and allow your new discus fish time to adjust to their new surroundings. Within a week or two, they should become more active and settle into their new tank.

Always remember to keep your discus fish water clean and remove any uneaten food from your tank by changing 10% to 20% of the water every other day, especially in their first weeks. you can later keep your water change schedule at once a week.

If your new fish is free of parasites and you follow the above steps you should be fine with your new discus and will enjoy your tank once they get used to their new environment.

For a general discus Care guide please refer to our previous post about the Discus fish tank setup.