Changing the Water

WHY SHOULD I CHANGE MY AQUARIUM’S WATER?

Did you know that Jack Wattley described frequent water changes as one of the most important factors for discus growth? He proved it in an experiment where he changed one tank’s water multiple times daily, and he changed another tank’s water only once daily. The discus in the water that was changed more often grew twice as large as the discus in the water changed less often. Then he explained that since discus naturally produce substances that are detrimental to their health, water changes are important to removing these impurities. When nothing is hindering discus’ growth, they can reach their full potential and flourish.

In this article, we’ll explain why you should change your discus’ water, how much you should change, how often you should change it, and what equipment you can use.

Schmidt-Focke Striated Red Discus

HOW MUCH OF MY AQUARIUM’S WATER SHOULD I CHANGE, AND HOW OFTEN?

Although all tropical fish aquariums require regular water changes, discus aquariums especially need frequent water changes. Change your discus’ aquarium water at least once a week. Some people change 20 to 25% of their aquarium’s water two to three times a week. If your discus look and behave healthier after water changes, change their water more frequently. Remember: The more you change your discus’ water, the more that harmful substances will be removed, and the more that your discus will flourish!

In special cases you may need to change the tank’s water daily. Examples include when rearing young fry or when medicating your discus.

You don’t need to change all your aquarium’s water at once. Many people only change a percentage at a time, making the job much easier.

WHAT EQUIPMENT SHOULD I USE TO CHANGE MY DISCUS’ WATER?

To make it easier to change your aquarium’s water, you may want to use no spill drain and refill systems, which you can find at many pet shops. However, these systems are not necessary. If you want, you can simply use buckets.

No Spill Drain and Refill System

QUESTIONS

• How much of your aquarium’s water will you change at a time?
• How frequently will you change your discus aquarium’s water?
• Will you use a no spill drain and refill system, or buckets, or a different method?