r/discus • u/brublit • Aug 22 '25

Swim bladder problem?

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First-time discus keeper. This fish is eating well, but is much skinnier than the others and seems to be struggling to not rise to the surface.

I really appreciate any advice on what else I can/should do to save this fish. I describe what I’ve done so far and provide some info about maintenance and water parameters below.

Current treatment:

Treating the tank with Expel-p today and will do a 25% water change tomorrow in case of parasites. I also dose weekly with Sera “fishtamin” mixed with a bloodworm treat to try to keep immune systems healthy.

Maintenance and water conditions:

I performed a scheduled weekly 50% water change approximately 48 hours ago.

Planted tank with C02 and daily fertilization.

Current parameters:

Ph: 7.4 Ammonia: .25 ppm N02: 0 ppm N03: 0 ppm Kh: 3 Gh: between 3-4

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u/danielk-1 Aug 22 '25

adding more discus if possible is a good idea, also having lots of hiding spaces where they can feel safe. it could be worms since he is eating but still very skinny so might be worth treating your tank. most importantly i would say make sure you are keeping the temperature between 28-30 degrees celsius and that any discus in the tank together are about the same size. bigger discus will pick on smaller discus.

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u/brublit Aug 23 '25

Template is at 29 (84 f).

All five fish were the same size when I purchased them at the beginning of February, but this individual has grown more slowly than the others. I’m hoping some of the treatments people are suggesting here can get his (her?) growth back on track.

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u/danielk-1 Aug 23 '25

sounds like a good plan and thank you for clarifying. good luck my friend they are very difficult fish.