Can oscars live with firemouth cichlids?
Verdict
Yes
Yes, oscars and firemouth cichlids can live together. Both are fine at 75–81°F. Plan on at least 75 gal.
Why it works
- Both are fine at 75–81°F.
- pH 6.5–8 suits both.
- They use different parts of the tank: oscars the mid, firemouth cichlids the bottom.
Water side by side
Size to scale
Care at a glance
| Oscar | Firemouth cichlid | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 74–81 °F | 75–86 °F |
| pH | 6–8 | 6.5–8 |
| Adult size | 12.0 in | 6.0 in |
| Minimum tank | 75 gal | 30 gal |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive | Semi-aggressive |
| Swims at | Middle | Bottom |
| Group | Alone or in pairs | Alone or in pairs |
| Diet | Carnivore | Omnivore |
Better tank mates for oscars
Common plecoYes
Clown loachYes
Black ghost knifeYes
BichirYes
Elephant nose fishYes
Chinese algae eaterYes
Better tank mates for firemouth cichlids
All firemouth cichlid tank mates
Questions
Can oscars live with firemouth cichlids?
Yes, oscars and firemouth cichlids can live together. Both are fine at 75–81°F. Plan on at least 75 gal.
What temperature suits both oscars and firemouth cichlids?
75–81 °F. Oscars need 74–81 °F, firemouth cichlids need 75–86 °F.
What size tank do oscars and firemouth cichlids need together?
At least 75 gal, set by the oscar. Add space for each extra fish.