Discus are one of the more difficult fish to feed. In spite of their large size, they have a relatively small mouth, and prefer small foods. They are midlevel feeders, which means they eat food as it falls through the water. Meaty foods such as beefheart and live foods such as brine shrimp are ideal. When it’s not possible to feed live foods try these good alternative Discus foods.
1. Hikari Tropical Discus
Hikari Discus Red sinking sticks contain special color enhancers that bring out the red colors in Discus. The sticks soften quickly, but retain their shape rather than disperse into fragments.
2. Spectrum Discus Formula
Composed of easily digestible fish meal protein and krill. The pellets soften, then sink slowly to allow the fish to feed at the preferred mid tank level.3. Jack Wattley Discus Formula
Jack Wattley, who is a world recognized Discus breeder, has developed an outstanding Discus formula. It contains garlic, which aids in reducing intestinal parasites. Available in frozen cubes, it even appeals to the fussiest of eaters. This would be my top choice, however it is not always easy to find. Definitely worth looking around for.4. Tetra Discus Bits
Of all the color enhancing foods, I've found Tetra Color Bits have consistently performed well, and been accepted by the widest range of fish. The granules sink slowly enough for all levels of feeders to feed. Be prepared to pay a little more than for other color formulas, but they are worth the extra pennies.