Oscars and tank size.

[AquatiCreations]

Hi Guys.

Looking through the internet,and various articles on Astronotus ocellatus I have come upon a wide range of recommended tank sizes. Some suggest that 40gallons/single fish is minimum,other state 55gallons and, still others say 70 gallons. What really is the appropriate tank size for a single fish?

 

[krytan]

75g (48"x18") a 16" fish needs space to turn around.

 

[AquatiCreations]

75g (48"x18") a 16" fish needs space to turn around.

Ah same lenght as a 55g but Wider... I see.

 

[GEV83]

Yup yup I ran into the same problem AquatiCreations but after some digging I found out that they do indeed need a 75 gal and is why I dont own an oscar at the moment. Nice fish but to big for my 60gal

 

[june2000]

75g (48"x18") a 16" fish needs space to turn around.

:iagree: Most of Oscar experts recommend at least 75G.

 

[msjinkzd]

I have mine in a 55g now, he is about 10". I will have to upgrade him very soon as the added width is really necessary. Not only for their size, but they are very messy eaters so overfiltration and more dilution will be a great bonus as well.

 

[AquatiCreations]

75gallons are fairly common on Craigslist, I will definitely be looking into one when I get the space.

Thanks guys!

 

[Dwarf Puffers]

I agree with 75 gallons. Sometimes I see people saying 55 gallon tanks are fine, but I prefer the width.

 

[AquatiCreations]

Quick Question: Do 75g have that bulky center brace?

 

[excuzzzeme]

It depends on the tank manufacturer.

I have my Oscars in a 90 (same footprint of a 75, just taller) and in a 100. I also have seen them in 55's and they can't move around in them. Like MsJ said they need room, more water and more filtration than a 55 because they are so messy. You want a fun fish you gotta pay.