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What Plants Work with Oscars?
Posted: Mon Sep 22, 2025 6:34 pm
by laki
I've got a 75 gallon tank with two Oscars, and I'm trying to add some plants. Every time I put something in, they rip it up or dig it out. Any suggestions for sturdy plants that can handle these guys?
Re: What Plants Work with Oscars?
Posted: Mon Sep 22, 2025 11:34 pm
by floatie
Oscars are brutal on plants, no joke. I've had luck with Java Fern and Anubias tied to driftwood or rocks. They're tough and don't need to be planted in substrate, so the Oscars can't uproot 'em. Also, try Amazon Swords with heavy root tabs, but even those might get messed with.
Re: What Plants Work with Oscars?
Posted: Tue Sep 23, 2025 12:22 am
by brento
Yeah, Java Fern is a solid choice. My Oscars leave it alone once it's anchored. I've also had some success with Hornwort floating at the top. It grows fast and gives them something to mess with that won't die right away.
Re: What Plants Work with Oscars?
Posted: Thu Sep 25, 2025 11:07 am
by oceanic4
floatie wrote: ↑Mon Sep 22, 2025 11:34 pm
Oscars are brutal on plants, no joke. I've had luck with Java Fern and Anubias tied to driftwood or rocks. They're tough and don't need to be planted in substrate, so the Oscars can't uproot 'em. Also, try Amazon Swords with heavy root tabs, but even those might get messed with.
I second the Anubias idea. Mine's been chilling on a piece of driftwood for months, and the Oscars haven't touched it. Just make sure the lighting isn't too intense, or you'll get algae on the leaves.
Re: What Plants Work with Oscars?
Posted: Thu Sep 25, 2025 3:00 pm
by lentoa
If you're up for a challenge, try Vallisneria. It's got deep roots and grows fast, so even if the Oscars tear some up, it'll bounce back. My tank has a mix of Vallisneria and Java Fern, and it's held up well. Just keep up with trimming so it doesn't take over.
Re: What Plants Work with Oscars?
Posted: Fri Sep 26, 2025 9:21 am
by freeway
I've seen Oscars destroy everything except plastic plants, honestly. But if you're set on live ones, go with the tough stuff like everyone's saying. Maybe add some floating plants like Frogbit to give them something to play with that won't get wrecked.
Re: What Plants Work with Oscars?
Posted: Fri Sep 26, 2025 11:41 am
by laki
Thanks for the suggestions, everyone. I'll try Anubias and Java Fern first and see how it goes. Appreciate the help!
Re: What Plants Work with Oscars?
Posted: Fri Sep 26, 2025 12:19 pm
by mysti
Don't forget about water parameters. Oscars are messy, and plants need good water to thrive. Keep an eye on nitrates and do regular water changes, or even the hardiest plants will struggle.
Re: What Plants Work with Oscars?
Posted: Fri Sep 26, 2025 3:16 pm
by buzzard
I've got a 100 gallon with Oscars and a bunch of Anubias. They've never bothered it, and it's been over a year. Just make sure you're not overfeeding the Oscars, or the excess food will mess with the plants.
Re: What Plants Work with Oscars?
Posted: Sat Sep 27, 2025 11:32 am
by seadrop
lentoa wrote: ↑Thu Sep 25, 2025 3:00 pm
If you're up for a challenge, try Vallisneria. It's got deep roots and grows fast, so even if the Oscars tear some up, it'll bounce back. My tank has a mix of Vallisneria and Java Fern, and it's held up well. Just keep up with trimming so it doesn't take over.
Vallisneria is a good call, but it can get out of hand if you're not careful. I'd start with a small amount and see how it does before planting a ton.