Can goldfish live with oscars?
Verdict
No
No. Goldfish and oscars should not share a tank. Goldfish are coldwater animals (60–74°F); oscars need 74–81°F. They meet only at 74°F, the edge of both ranges.
What to watch
- Deal breakerGoldfish are coldwater animals (60–74°F); oscars need 74–81°F. They meet only at 74°F, the edge of both ranges.
What works
- pH 7–8 suits both.
Water side by side
Size to scale
Care at a glance
| Goldfish | Oscar | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 60–74 °F | 74–81 °F |
| pH | 7–8 | 6–8 |
| Adult size | 10.0 in | 12.0 in |
| Minimum tank | 40 gal | 75 gal |
| Temperament | Peaceful | Semi-aggressive |
| Swims at | All levels | Middle |
| Group | Alone or in pairs | Alone or in pairs |
| Diet | Omnivore | Carnivore |
Better tank mates for goldfish
Better tank mates for oscars
Common plecoYes
Clown loachYes
Black ghost knifeYes
BichirYes
Elephant nose fishYes
Chinese algae eaterYes
Questions
Can goldfish live with oscars?
No. Goldfish and oscars should not share a tank. Goldfish are coldwater animals (60–74°F); oscars need 74–81°F. They meet only at 74°F, the edge of both ranges.
What temperature suits both goldfish and oscars?
74–74 °F. Goldfish need 60–74 °F, oscars need 74–81 °F.
What size tank do goldfish and oscars need together?
At least 75 gal, set by the oscar. Add space for each extra fish.