Red Tiger Oscar-2-2.5"

The Oscar, scientifically known as Astronotus ocellatus, is a large and charismatic cichlid native to the slow-moving rivers and floodplains of the Amazon Basin in South America. It is one of the most popular large cichlids in the aquarium hobby due to its intelligence, bold personality, and striking variety of color forms.

Adult Oscars typically grow 10 to 12 inches (25 to 30 cm) in captivity, though in the wild they may reach up to 14 inches (35 cm). They have a deep, oval-shaped body, large eyes, and powerful jaws. The wild type has a dark olive to black body with orange-red markings across the flanks, and a distinctive eyespot (“ocellus”) at the base of the caudal fin. Captive-bred varieties include red, albino, tiger, and long-finned “veil tail” Oscars.

A tank of at least 75 gallons is required for a single Oscar, with 125 gallons or larger recommended if keeping a pair or community of large cichlids. Oscars are strong diggers and often rearrange their aquariums, so décor should include sturdy driftwood, smooth rocks, and minimal fragile plants. A secure lid is essential, as they may leap. Powerful filtration and regular water changes are crucial, as Oscars are messy eaters and produce heavy bioloads.

Water parameters should include a temperature of 74 to 82°F (23 to 28°C), a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, and soft to moderately hard water. Stability and cleanliness are more important than exact values.

Feeding Astronotus ocellatus is simple, as they are omnivores with a strong preference for meaty foods. Offer a staple of high-quality cichlid pellets, supplemented with frozen or live foods like shrimp, earthworms, crickets, and occasional vegetables such as peas or spinach. Avoid feeding feeder fish, which can introduce disease.

Oscars are intelligent, interactive fish that often recognize their keepers and can be trained to take food from the hand. They can be aggressive toward tankmates, but may coexist with other large, robust South American cichlids or catfish in very spacious aquariums.

Breeding Oscars in captivity is possible. They form monogamous pairs, clean a flat surface, and lay several hundred to a thousand eggs. Both parents guard the eggs and fry diligently. Fry can be fed infusoria or newly hatched brine shrimp once free-swimming.

Astronotus ocellatus (Oscar) is a centerpiece fish for large aquariums, combining beauty, intelligence, and personality in a way few other freshwater species can match.