O
Oscar
Astronotus ocellatus
VS
T
Turquoise Rainbowfish
Melanotaenia lacustris
Choosing between Oscar and Turquoise Rainbowfish? Both are excellent choices, but they have different care requirements and temperaments. Use the detailed comparison below to make an informed decision based on your experience level, tank size, and community goals.
Oscar
Astronotus ocellatusVS
Turquoise Rainbowfish
Melanotaenia lacustrisCommon Name
Oscar
Turquoise Rainbowfish
Scientific Name
Astronotus ocellatus
Melanotaenia lacustris
Type
Freshwater
Freshwater
Difficulty
Intermediate
Intermediate
Temperament
Aggressive
Peaceful
Minimum Tank
75 gallons
40 gallons
Recommended Tank
125 gallons
55 gallons
Temperature
74°F - 81°F
72°F - 79°F
pH Range
6.5 - 7.5
7 - 8
Max Size
14 inches
4 inches
Lifespan
10-20 years
5-8 years
Diet
Cichlid pellets, Live foods, Frozen foods, Vegetables, Shrimp
High-quality flake food, Small pellets, Frozen foods, Vegetable matter
Oscar
✓ Good For
Turquoise Rainbowfish
✓ Good For
- Community tanks
- Schooling displays
Explore More
Similar Comparisons
Discover other popular fish pairings to find your perfect aquarium match.