Stocking a tank

[christian1971]

For a 75 gal tank someone mentioned getting 6-8 discus. Can I start with fewer then that and get the remainder a month or so later?

[TURQ64]

If you start with fewer, there may be agression issues with the lower numbers, and once a bully get's relly set in their ways, they are hard to break...JMO

[Skip]

the magic number is 6.. i have 4 for 2 weeks.. (new additions) in a QT tank.. they have been very skittish for 2 weeks.. i added 3 more from same source.. PRESTO! they are all happy and swimming together..

so just be aware.. they are social schooling fish..

ps.. 75g is a great tank size!!

[ericatdallas]

I've tried the 6 route and I've tried the 17 route. The 17 route is definitely the way to go :) At 6, a bully still established itself in my tank (not saying it'll happen in all tanks). I think the more you have, the better it will be.

That being said, you are limited by your tank volume so no more than 8. I know it's a big initial investment though... are you buying juvies or adults?

[Disgirl]

Just to add my experience here, I stocked my 75 gal tank with 12 juvies, all about 2". When they were about 3" they went into a 125 and are all now full grown. I have never had one minute of aggression in the tank, it also has wood, pool filter sand and plants growing on the wood. They school together, or stay alone, or pair up at times. Always peaceful in there. Knocking on wood now that I said this:).
Barb

[TwitchyDiscus]

You should start with 6, if you get newer discus they can be picked on.