New to the forums! 29 gallon build!

[Robleseddie]

Hey everyone, new to the forums here but have steadily been keeping fish and Discus in particular for the last several years. Recently came across a lone Marlboro Discus and took it upon myself to setup a 29 gallon planted aquarium and brought the little guy home. He is currently the only inhabitant in this tank and will likely remain so outside of another potential Discus. I realize that most keepers are using larger systems, but unfortunately I don’t have the appropriate space for a 40, 50 or larger sized tank. I’m also every limited due to my landlord. (The joys of renting) but I wanted to go ahead and show everyone how my current setup is going. Tanks specs as follows:

29 gallon tank
Universal rocks background
Aqueon powerfilter
Marineland 200 watt heater
Hikari brand Sponge filter
Fluval shrimp stratum substrate (buffering reasons)
Driftwood
And two generous pieces of Java Fern along with some ground moss that I’m hoping will grow in a carpeting fashion.

Water parameters: ammonia 0ppm nitrite 0ppm nitrate 0ppm and ph 6.5
Using half tap water and half R/O water to maintain ph levels.

Let me know what you guys think! I’m also an avid reef keeper and have a Nano sized reef tank as well!

[rickztahone]

First and foremost, welcome to the forum. Many here, including me will emphasize how social discus are and keeping them alone isn't recommended. Discus should be kept in groups of 5 or more. With that said, I understand your size restrictions due to renting. You can always add a sump for higher water volume.

[Mr.BigBlock]

Welcome aboard!

[Filip]

Welcome aboard RoblesEddie .

As Rick already said. , discus are schooling fish and thrive in larger groups .
With that said I have seen a few reports from members here on this forum where discus keepers successfully kept a single discus in some of their tanks for a couple of years , so I guess although not recommendable, its still doable.
I would change the bottom gravel in to a fine sand too , because plant soils are notorious for traping dirt , affecting the overall water quallity and compromising discus health on the long run .
Other than that , everything else from tech. aspect seems fine to me .

Good luck with your lonesome Marlboro cowboy and please send some pictures of it in its new home.