Newby oscar question (I think they are ciclids)

  • We are currently upgrading MFK. thanks! -neo

Lund

Feeder Fish
MFK Member
Jan 29, 2006
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What size tank would be best for 2 oscars. I don't have any yet, but I would want to make sure their living area is big enough, so that they act as natural as possible. I always heard that they develope huge personalities.
 
if you want the most out of them, get at least a 180g. 240g would be better still. there's no such thing as too much tankspace, when it comes to these cichlids. some people would cram two of them in a 125g, but that is sooo bare-minimum.


180g would suit, 240g would rock.

You could look into peripheral small tankmates as well, of course.
 
oscars are south american cichlids. they can reach lengths of 15"+ they do have great personalities if you do get a couple, make sure they are not both males, that could be trouble.
 
It seems like every time I post I learn something new. It's great!. The research I have done said that oscars reach 12" or so. 15" is quite a bit bigger thanks for the heads up. How can you tell that you are getting a male or female? And are oscars compatible with black ghost knife, or clown knifes in a 200 gallon tank? Even if they are introduced at the same size. Or are they just too aggressive
 
Yeah they will get bigger than a foot, 15" is likely if you treat them well. They need frequent water changes and strong filtration. They develop a bond with whoever feeds them. I can pet mine but you have to be careful not to spook them, it's a long way back if you do.

They are forgiving with water chemistry so just focus on keeping everything constant more than any specific number. I keep my pH at what my tap comes out at (7.5). One single specimine in a tank by him/herself always brings out their personality more, but they do seem to enjoy company. Good luck
 
Lund said:
It seems like every time I post I learn something new. It's great!. The research I have done said that oscars reach 12" or so. 15" is quite a bit bigger thanks for the heads up. How can you tell that you are getting a male or female? And are oscars compatible with black ghost knife, or clown knifes in a 200 gallon tank? Even if they are introduced at the same size. Or are they just too aggressive

there is no visual way to sex an oscar

however they can be sex by looking at there vent area

dont ask me how you can tell them apart by this method, i have no clue :)
 
DeLgAdO said:
there is no visual way to sex an oscar

however they can be sex by looking at there vent area

dont ask me how you can tell them apart by this method, i have no clue :)


even the experts have a hard time sexing them maybe watch for the one who pays for dinner :D
 
I have two in a 125 and they are happy as can be... don't be shy about the tankmates either... if you have the chance to get a bigger tank than the 125 i would go for 150-180 that should be enough... they need a good filtration system because they are pigs. they will grow, and grow fast look for them to be about 8 inches in the first 10-12 months then they slow down a little after that. They are compatable with just about anything just so long as it is not more aggressive than the oscar and bigger than the oscar

welcome to MFK and good luck
 
If you REALLY love your 2 oscars and want to commit to them and want what's best, grab a 120 or larger.

I think it's definitely possible for 2 Oscars to live in a 90 gallon or better yet a 110 gallon. Or a 120 Long rather (which is a standard 90 gallon but 1 foot longer :grinyes: Costs the same as a 90 gallon at the LFS where I live, crazy huh?)

If it's 90-110 gallon add 2 top of the line HOB filters (aquaclear 110 or emperor 400) and 1 large Canister filter (Fluval 404, Filstar Xp3, Eheim Pro II)

Edit* whoops...You said you want natural as possible...that means you LOVE your oscars..hehe.....Yeah grab a 150 gallon and do a natural setup with driftwood and all! That would be SWEET!!!
 
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