Can oscars live with swordtails?
Verdict
No
No. Oscars and swordtails should not share a tank. An adult oscar eats fish that fit in its mouth, and at 5 inches swordtails do.
What to watch
- Deal breakerAn adult oscar eats fish that fit in its mouth, and at 5 inches swordtails do.
What works
- Both are fine at 74–79°F.
- pH 7–8 suits both.
Water side by side
Size to scale
Care at a glance
| Oscar | Swordtail | |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 74–81 °F | 72–79 °F |
| pH | 6–8 | 7–8.3 |
| Adult size | 12.0 in | 5.0 in |
| Minimum tank | 75 gal | 30 gal |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive | Semi-aggressive |
| Swims at | Middle | Middle |
| Group | Alone or in pairs | Groups of 3+ |
| 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 swordtails
Questions
Can oscars live with swordtails?
No. Oscars and swordtails should not share a tank. An adult oscar eats fish that fit in its mouth, and at 5 inches swordtails do.
What temperature suits both oscars and swordtails?
74–79 °F. Oscars need 74–81 °F, swordtails need 72–79 °F.
What size tank do oscars and swordtails need together?
At least 75 gal, set by the oscar. Add space for each extra fish.