What Should Fish Owners Do When They Notice Discus Breeding Behavior

Discus fish originated from Brazil, in the Amazon River. It is one of the main favorites of fish tank owners, and many consider the discus fish as one of the most eye-catching freshwater species.

Discus Fish Behavior

• Discus fish will prefer live foods, but fish owners can supplement the fish’s diet with vitamin-enriched food.
• If discus is well-cared for, it can have a lifespan of up to ten years.
• Discus tends to stay in the middle portion of the tank.
• Some discus fish are picky with the quality of the water, thus requiring the owner to frequently do a partial water change to reduce fish stress.

Discus Fish Mating Behavior

• Discus fish tend to choose their mates and pair off.
• Female discus reaches sexual maturity at around 12 months old.
• Males can become sexually mature at around 15 months.
• Twitching and shaking are two of the most common behaviors seen before spawning.
• Before and during spawning, the discus will secrete a slimy substance on its body.
• This slimy coating will eventually become the food source for the discus fry.

What Should Fish Owners Do When They Notice Discus Breeding Behavior?

• Fish owners should constantly keep the tank water scrupulously clean.
• The fish owner should provide an area (plants or vertical slats) where the discus can lay its eggs.
• Soft water is ideal for encouraging eggs to hatch; fish owners can add a specific anti-fungal medication during this stage to help prevent fungal attacks on the spawn.
• A wire mesh installed in the breeding tank can help prevent parent discus from eating their initial spawn.