Idea of add new cichlid to existing American tank !

[aykinhk]

Hi all, seeking advice

I am trying to add my new Oscar into my exis ting American tank in next few weeks

My question is what is the best idea or way to add oscar into avoid aggression and nipping by existing cichlid
Some people said feed the existing cichlid first and put the new fish at the same time
And also some say add the fish when the light is off or dark ,even cover it by black clothe

Any seggestion?

 

[MrsE88]

Do a water change on the tank and rearrange everything. Then you can add him once the tank is filled. I think that’s the best way to do it, but still watch for aggression.

 

[Covetous]

No matter what you do it will be tough, adding fish to a pre-existing tank is always a gamble. I like to feed my fish first. Then after they’ve eaten ill do a water change. Then I’ll turn off the lights, re-arrange the aquascape abit and then add the new fish (after he is acclimated of course)

And still sometimes the current fish will Harass the new fish too much. But, that’s my personal routine. Good luck

 

[Audaxcity]

On the contrary, I'd add the fish, and immediately start feeding as soon as I see him being chased around. Gives me a good idea on the initial aggression level, and distracts the aggressors long enough for the newcomer to get a sense of its surroundings, and feed if it wants to. I find they tolerate each other more if they feed together as well. Do a re-scape of the tank immediately afterwards if the aggression level is too high.

Then again, I've only kept the more "mild" mannered side of the cichlid spectrum.

 

[Gourami Swami]

What size tank are we talking?
I usually feed the fish, turn the lights off, and put the fish in. And turn the lights on normally the next day.

 

[Toiletcar]

Jeff Rapps always recommends introducing at feeding time. It has worked every single time for me.
What are the tank mates? That might make the difference. Also tank size. Bigger the tank, the more success you’ll have.

 

[Jexnell]

Also if can add other fish in at the same time, more things for the existing fish to chase.