I have a 125gallon set up with one tiger and one albino oscar and a large Pacu. I was wondering what is the ideal ph for these fish. Mine runs about 7.4to 7.8. Also is it possible to use snails in this tank that they can't eat. I know the answer to that question is probably no. Thanks Shanezoid.
Oscars
- Thread starter shaneZoid
- Start date
oscars and pacus are both south american soft water/acidic species and 6.6-6.8 would be ideal. as low as 6.4 (possibly lower for the pacu) is tolerable. i wouldnt go above 7.0 for either species. being able to live in certain conditions and long term success are two very different things, so you should do what is ideal, not just what can work.
Just a note, but you probably are aware that a 125g tank will be too small for a pacu? They need upwards of 500g. They also grow very quickly. This is a thread someone started on what happend with the pacus he tried to keep:
http://www.aquariacentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=51417
Roan
http://www.aquariacentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=51417
Roan
i would suggest if u dont plan on gettin a larger tank i would try to get rid of the pacu while its fairly small before u have to euthanize the poor fish. unless u have plans on atleast a 300-500 gallon tank in the very near future. none of the LFS around even stock pacus and they will only order them if they know the people have the proper tank to care for these not so gentle giants. if u like the pacu look maybe getting 5-6 silver dollars to put in with your oscars is an option. btw how large is a large pacu i have seen a pacu that couldnt turn around in a 125 because the poor guy would rub his tail and nose in that small tank. i mean essentially its up to u what u do with your pacu but IMO its not the best practice keeping big fish in an enviorment thats too small. not to mention if he gets pissed or startled he may end up killing one of your oscars in a fit of rage they do get very skittish and it seems to worsen as they get older. just my two cents. and about the ph i keep my south americans about 6.8.
The pacu is at least 18 inches long and is ready for a new tank. I would like to move up to a 220 or a 240 but I need to find a great deal and also sell mu tank near the same time. Thanks for the advice Shanezoid.