Substrate for Discus Tanks?

I'm setting up my discus tank soon and wanted to know what you guys are doing for your substrate. I use dirt in all my tanks, but I was thinking it might not be ideal considering the discus's sensitivity. Have you guys kept discus with dirt? What would you recommend? Im thinking of giving eco complete a try or sticking with just sand. Also what plants seem to do the best for you guys handling the heat and ph?

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Permalink Reply by Peter on March 6, 2014 at 3:27am

If ur planning on powerfeeding so they get big fast do barebottom tank or go with sand. If u plan on powerfeeding and want plants dont do carpeting plants they tend to hold waste and un eaten food down. If u dont plan on powerfeeding any substrate will be fine. Yes even dirt. Ive kept discus in dirted tanks with np. Just requires more wcs. Specially if u kick up dirt. Most all plants tolerate the temps. Just look at my pics. My tank is at 84-86f at all times. Dont stress on water quality if ur not powerfeeding. A 50% wc a week is enough. If ur gonna be feeding beef heart make it 2-3wcs a week. And dont believe the discus are hard to keep hype. They are not. They are as hard as any other fish. Good luck with ur discus they are sweet fish

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Permalink Reply by alex9j4m on March 6, 2014 at 3:44am

Sweet thanks for the info, what's you're opinion on using RO water? The problem is I have well water which is fine for my other fish since it comes out with a 7 ph and lower hardness but what about these guys? Also if you've used it dose it effect the plants?

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Permalink Reply by Peter on March 6, 2014 at 7:50pm

If u got ro water use it. Cus well water varys from well to well and on top of that i havent used well water for discus so i dont really have a say with well water. With ro water u will have to dose ferts for the plants thats all. Its better to use ro water also if u plan on breedin them. U will have a higher survival rate with the fry.