Originally Posted by
brewmaster15
to remove the gravel just do a little each water change so your filter can compensate. The biggest issue is to be sure you clean the substrate well before hand.Pockets of anaerobic bacteria in substrate can liberate toxic gases to the tank when disturbed.We have had many members lose fish like that.
You are in a hard spot for keeping discus. 38 gallons is small for a group but you can still grow out several youngsters together and then either upsize the tank if you can find the space or you can decrease the discus number and hope for the best. Young adults are okay on their own. It comes down to how much you want to succeed with Discus. Right now your tank is not really optimal for the one you have. It looks stressed. It may settle in and do ok but its just not how it usually works out.
al