Tropical Fish Forums

[Julie]

Hey I just want to get some opionions on this. Me and my dad might start a project to build a tank but first I wanted to hear your guys opinions on my 3 different stocking ideas, and what size tank would be need for them.

Stocking Plan 1
1 oscar
1 convict
1 firemouth

Stocking Plan 2
1 oscar
2 convicts

Stocking Plan 3
1 oscar
2 firemouths

The oscar is non negotiable, I am open to ideas as well. What size tank would be need for the 3 different stocking plans?

[spotto_the_krib]

Firstly, you must be aware the while oscars are fantastic fish, they can be aggressive and kill other fish. However, this shouldn't be a problem if you have a big enough tank. If you want an oscar you MUST have a tank at least 53 gallons otherwise you will find you will have an unhappy oscar and you really don't want that!! After the first one, you should have an additional 26.5 gallons for every additional oscar. If happy enough your oscar should be compatible with other fish but be aware that oscars enjoy digging out plants- one plant they don't attack is java fern because this plant attaches itself the logs and rocks rather than gravel substrate. Remember 53 gallon tank MINIMUM and good luck!

[Jack_Dempsey11]

I would not confine a 15 inch fish to a 53 gallon tank, period. Whether you have two convicts, two firemouths, or one of each doesn't matter as they any combination will require the same amount of space, as both fish grow to about 6 inches and are from the same location in the wild.

In my opinion, an oscar ALONE will require about a 125 gallon aquarium (72in x 20in x 20 in). If you also want to keep firemouths and/or convicts, I would reccomend a 180 gallon aquarium (72 x 24 x 24).
_________________
I'm Back

[PocketBoy]

I have to agree with jack_dempsey 11.

125g is what I consider the minimum for an Oscar. Keeping Oscars in 55g is just as bad as the WalMart keeping bettas in tiny plastic cups. -_-

However, from what I've heard, firemouths are not very aggressive and don't get very big.. so I wouldn't keep one with an Oscar

However, I've heard of convicts killing Oscars. I'm sure that's SUPER rare, but it happens. I'd keep 2 con's with an oscar as long as they weren't breeding. Breeding convicts will attack/kill anything or die trying.

Good luck!
_________________
"Express Yourself Don't Repress Yourself" - Madonna

[Julie]

Thank you for all your posts. I think I want to try 1 oscar, 1 convict and 1 fire mouth.. but I have a lot of time to think... I know that they need a lot of space. And I just looking for the right tank at this point. Thanks