Can oscars live with african cichlids?
Verdict
No
No. Oscars and african cichlids should not share a tank. An adult oscar eats fish that fit in its mouth, and at 5 inches african cichlids do.
What to watch
- Deal breakerAn adult oscar eats fish that fit in its mouth, and at 5 inches african cichlids do.
- Watch outAfrican cichlids are aggressive. Oscars hold their own only in a big tank with places to hide.
What works
- Both are fine at 75–81°F.
- pH 7.8–8 suits both.
Water side by side
Size to scale
Care at a glance
| Oscar | African cichlid | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 74–81 °F | 75–82 °F |
| pH | 6–8 | 7.8–8.6 |
| Adult size | 12.0 in | 5.0 in |
| Minimum tank | 75 gal | 55 gal |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive | Aggressive |
| Swims at | Middle | All levels |
| Group | Alone or in pairs | Groups of 6+ |
| Diet | Carnivore | Herbivore |
Better tank mates for oscars
Common plecoYes
Clown loachYes
Black ghost knifeYes
BichirYes
Elephant nose fishYes
Chinese algae eaterYes
Better tank mates for african cichlids
All african cichlid tank mates
Questions
Can oscars live with african cichlids?
No. Oscars and african cichlids should not share a tank. An adult oscar eats fish that fit in its mouth, and at 5 inches african cichlids do.
What temperature suits both oscars and african cichlids?
75–81 °F. Oscars need 74–81 °F, african cichlids need 75–82 °F.
What size tank do oscars and african cichlids need together?
At least 75 gal, set by the oscar. Add space for each extra fish.