Which Fish to Keep with Discus?

Maya Lin-Takahashi
Maya Lin-Takahashi
• • 7 min read

Discus Behavior/Compatibility Some Suitable Aquarium Mates Include Cardinal Tetras, Neons, Emperor and Rummynose Tetras Rummynose Tetras Lifespan for the...

Which Fish to Keep with Discus?

Discus Behavior/Compatibility
Some suitable aquarium mates include cardinal tetras, neons, emperor and rummynose tetras
rummynose tetras
Lifespan for the rummy-nose tetra in the aquarium is usually 5 to 6 years with careful maintenance. Exceptional specimens can live for more than 8 years. The fish is interesting in that it can act as a "mine canary" in an aquarium, alerting the aquarist to potential pollution problems in an aquarium.
› wiki › Rummy-nose_tetra
as well as clown loaches
clown loaches
Information about the maximum size of the clown loach varies, with some estimates ranging up to 20–30 cm (7.9–11.8 in), and with typical adult sizes ranging from 15–20 cm (5.9–7.9 in). The fish's body is long and laterally compressed, with an arched dorsal surface and a flat ventral surface.
› wiki › Clown_loach
and dwarf cichlids, such as rams and Apistogramma
Apistogramma
Apistogramma are dwarf cichlids with adults reaching between 2 and 8 cm (0.8–3.1 in) in standard length depending on exact species.
› wiki › Apistogramma
species. All of these fish tolerate the high temperatures and low pH/hardness required by discus.

How many discus fish should be kept together?

Discus should be kept together, and those of different varieties will also school together meaning you can have great color variations. A minimum of 5 is recommended, but more will look better and create a sturdier group.

Must Read

Can you keep catfish with discus?

Tankmates. Discus tank mates must also prefer soft acidic, very warm water, but at the same time must not be boisterous or aggressive. ... Catfish can be included as long as they are warm water tolerant and don't grow larger than the discus.

Maya Lin-Takahashi

Maya Lin-Takahashi

Consumer Tech & Gadget Reviewer
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Maya is a hardware enthusiast who tests and reviews smart home devices, smartphones, wearables, and audio gear. She focuses on practical consumer value and build quality.