Lighting problem with bare bottom breeding tank

[x2h]

I put my discus pair in a bare bottom breeding tank 3 days ago and they seem to not like the light tube at all. I have dimed it to very low level by putting layers of thick paper towels underneath the light. However, as sson as the light is on, the discus will hide at the back and begin darting. As soon as I turn off the light, they are normal and are all over the place. there is a cardboard under the tank (kind of yellow color), don't know if that's the reason. Anyone tips to solve this?

[Darrell Ward]

I would just leave it off, or else remove the fish, flip the tank upside down, and paint the bottom a flat color. Reflections off the glass are probably spooking them.

[x2h]

ok thanks. i will leave it off then until next round. if I were to paint it, what color is best? thanks!

[Darrell Ward]

Really dark colors can sometimes make fish colors appear dark, so it's best to stay with lighter shades.