posted 03-22-2004 09:06 AM         

Discus need very soft water, if you don't have it they generally will not live. The pet stores here don't stock discus at all just because we have hard water and they can't keep them alive in it.

Discus also require very clean water, probably you'll have to do a water change once per week.

They need warm and stable temperatures and live plants are a must. If you plan on having some tank mates they must meet the above requirements although most of what I've learned say that discus do best with other discus as tank mates. You could put some ram cichlids or possibly angels in with them but they need other fish who won't hog all the food.

I hope I haven't discouraged you. Discus are a beautiful fish if you can provide for them. I could not, the lfs that had them a while ago wanted $35 for one the size of a quarter! And a large aquarium is a must and I do not have one. If you think you're up to it go for it! You'll only know if you can do it by trying.

Good luck,