Okay, finally finished the thread lol
So I would like to start by saying that I fully intend on making this tank an environment that these fish will thrive best and want to spawn in. I plan on buying a tank or two to use for growing fry out once I get the hang of discus keeping. I would also, as long as their is nothing to oppose this being a good idea in any way, like to make this tank so I can also keep and spawn bristle nose plecos. (I wanted imperial zebra plecos, but they are simply too expensive for me at this time and I have read that sometimes they try to feed on the discus' slime coating. I figure they would be better to wait probably at least a year for with this in mind.)
I DO have a few questions.
Firstly, I am nervous about choosing a potting soil to put in pots for plants, so if anyone could direct me to a specific one known to be safe for aquarium use it would be greatly appreciated. What I've read has persuaded me to not even start the addition of plants for a good few months at least, but for future reference.
Secondly, what kind of lighting would everyone recommend for discus? I believe what I currently have is two Zoomed Flora Sun bulbs in two hoods over my tank. I would like it to be sufficient for the future plants to be added, but I mostly just want whatever will make their colors "pop" the most.
Thirdly, I have the API freshwater master test kit that tests pH, nitrates, ammonia, and nitrite, but not hardness of the water. What additional test kits, if any, do I need and what would be the ideal values for those tests?
Lastly, I know the answer to this question will most definitely be a resounding "no" from everyone in the fish community, but I have this green terror who I and my fiance love who we have thus far grown to 4" or 5" from about 1 1/2". He doesn't get along with any other kind of aggressive fish (I have tried quite a few and he either took their territory or attempted to die trying to keep his territory), but I have had him with two angels for months and he never shows any signs of aggression towards them and even shares food with them. It's so cute. No go on keeping him with the discus? There's no way I'll be able to get another tank large enough for him to be happy in, I just hate re-homing a fish I have come to love so much.
Well thank you everyone,
and if I'm imposing on your thread, bif, just let me know and I'll take it somewhere else. I just thought I mine as well post here since it seems all the pros are posting on this one