Methods
for Breeding Discus
Discus fish are one of the
most elegant aquarium fish and also one of the most difficult
to breed. As with other cichlids, it is best to bring
up a batch of youngsters and let them select their own
mates. Start by purchasing half a dozen young fish. When
10-15 months old, pairs will form. Each pair is then transferred
to a 24 x 15 x 15 inch tank. The spawning act is similar
to that of angelfish, eggs are laid on a broad-leaved
plant or flat stone. One or both parents fan and look
after the eggs. The young hatch out and hang on mucoid
threads. It is generally accepted that it is necessary
to leave the brood with the parents, for once the yolk
sac is absorbed the young feed off the mucous secretion
from the bodies of the parents. Nevertheless, on some
occasions fry resulting from the eggs hatched away from
the parents have been reared on fine, sifted, newly hatched
brine shrimp. Once the fry become free swimming the young
are quickly reared on usual foods. |
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Egg
rearing without the parents involves transferring the
eggs to a container of distilled water (with a few drops
of methylene blue added), immediately after the spawning
is complete. Add a small bubbler to oxygenate the eggs,
allow a gentle stream of bubbles to flow over the eggs.
It is not recommended to attempt the removal of dead chalky
white eggs, since these actions usually injures neighboring
eggs. Methylene blue is added to prevent fungus growth
on the eggs, the water should be deep blue in colour to
ensure adequate protection. When the fry hatch they with
clump on mucoid threads. Once the fry absorb their yolk
sacs they may be feed newly hatched brine shrimp. Do partial
water changes about once a day. The methylene blue should
be removed by these changes within a few days, this is
important since brine shrimp do not live long in the presence
of the dye. |
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