Photo taken at Wharf Aquatics
© Sean Evans
|
| Common name: | Oscar, Tiger oscar, Red tiger oscar, Velvet cichlid |
| Scientific name: | Astronotus ocellatus |
| Synonyms: | (none) |
| Size: | 12" (30cm) or more. |
| Origin: | South America |
| Tank setup: | A large tank (see below), with plenty of open space and robust decor. Ensure that heaters are protected from breakage. |
| Compatibility: | Not for the community tank! Small fishes will be eaten. Robust tankmates should be chosen with care. |
| Temperature: | 23-28oC (73-82oF) |
| Water chemistry: | Not critical: around neutral pH (6.5-7.5), soft to fairly hard. |
| Feeding: | Carnivorous: cichlid sticks/pellets and meaty foods like mussel, prawn and baitfish. |
| Sexing: | No obvious differences. Pairs are usually obtained by allowing one to form naturally from a group of juveniles. |
| Breeding: | A large number of eggs are laid on a pre-cleaned surface. The eggs and fry
are tended by both parents. |
| Comments: |
The attractive colouration of juveniles makes them very popular, but this fish grows very large, and a single adult
is likely to require a tank of around 50 gallons (225 L) minimum eventually. A pair will require a tank of around 80 gallons (360 L) or larger.
They are enthusiastic and messy feeders, so a good filtration system is essential.
Oscars are considered one of the ultimate 'pet' fish, due to their obvious intelligence and personality - almost every long-term
oscar owner has a story to tell about the antics of their 'pet'!
|
