Discus - Symphysodon 

Keeping discus fish can be a rewarding experience, but it does require some knowledge and effort. If you're starting with little knowledge, becoming an expert will take time and hands-on experience. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to keep discus fish and some tips on how to become an expert:

• Research: Begin by learning about discus fish. Read books, articles, watch videos, and join online forums dedicated to discus keeping. Understand their natural habitat, behavior, and specific care requirements.

• Tank Setup: Prepare a suitable tank for your discus fish. A tank size of at least 55 gallons (190 liters) is recommended for a small group of discus ONLY. Ensure the tank has proper filtration, heating, and lighting. Maintain the water temperature between 82°F to 86°F (28°C to 30°C) and keep the pH level between 6.0 and 7.5. I highly recommend a larger tank in the excess of 90 gallons. 

• Cycling the Tank: Before adding discus, cycle the aquarium to establish beneficial bacteria that will break down harmful ammonia and nitrites. This process usually takes a few weeks.

• Selecting Healthy Discus: Purchase discus from reputable breeders or fish stores. Look for healthy fish with vibrant colors, intact fins, and no visible signs of disease. Avoid discus that appear stressed or emaciated.

• Acclimation: When you bring the discus home, acclimate them slowly to the tank water by floating the bag in the tank for about 15-20 minutes and then gradually adding small amounts of tank water to the bag.

• Feeding: Provide a balanced diet for your discus fish. High-quality pellets or flakes specially formulated for discus should be the staple diet. Supplement their diet with frozen or live foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.

• Water Changes: Regular water changes are essential to maintain good water quality. Perform weekly water changes of about 30% to 50% of the tank volume to remove accumulated toxins and waste.

• Observation: Pay close attention to your discus fish daily. Watch their behavior, feeding habits, and any signs of distress or illness.

• Seek Expert Advice: Join local aquarium clubs or online communities where experienced discus keepers share their knowledge and advice. Ask questions and seek guidance from experts who have successfully kept discus for a long time.

• Patience and Experience: Becoming an expert in discus keeping takes time and experience. Observe how your fish respond to changes in the environment and water parameters. Learn from any mistakes and adjust your care accordingly.

• Breeding: If you're interested in breeding discus, educate yourself on the intricacies of the breeding process. Learn about pair selection, breeding triggers, and caring for the fry.