Introducing discus

[CajunAg]

Great thread, lots of helpful info.

I am in the process of setting up my first discus tank, a 65 gal with a 20 gal sump. My plan is to put 6 5in+ discus (adults). I'd like to do a fishless cycle, with the bacteria coming from plants purchased at a quality LFS. After checking, re-checking, and checking again to make sure the tank is cycled, how do I introduce the fish? Would the filter be able to handle 6 discus all of a sudden? I figured an initial regimen of small feedings and daily water changes will make everything "balance out" so to speak. Am I correct?

 

[3dees]

your going to put a strain on your filter but you can do it. I would do a 50% wc every other day and test everyday for a week or two. I would use prime as a conditioner. just don't test for ammonia as the prime can cause false readings.

 

[MKD]

what is your water perameter right now? make sure it fully cycle before adding fish.

 

[dp.71]

You should be fine.....

 

[CajunAg]

Haha tank is not yet finished being setup, so I don't even have water in it yet. As I slowly put things together I was pondering the question I already asked. Once the tank is "running", I will be sure to make sure it is fully cycled before I put a fish order in. Thanks for the advice guys

 

[Juxtaroberto]

Once the tank is cycled, you can continue adding ammonia without fish in slowly increasing doses, to replicate the effect of slowly adding more and more fish. Your bacterial colony will grow accordingly, and when you add your fish you won't run the risk of the bacteria being overwhelmed.

 

[CajunAg]

Once the tank is cycled, you can continue adding ammonia without fish in slowly increasing doses, to replicate the effect of slowly adding more and more fish. Your bacterial colony will grow accordingly, and when you add your fish you won't run the risk of the bacteria being overwhelmed.

I like that, any idea of just how much to dose to mimic 6 discus? Haha Thanks for the input!