This species is known for its vibrant personality, with several bred varieties showcasing different colors and patterns.
Oscars, being territorial by nature, pose a risk when introduced to a tank. They can be aggressive, readily attacking other fish that encroach upon their territory, especially during mating and feeding times.
Typically, Oscars spend most of their time swimming in the mid-levels of the tank but may venture down to the substrate in search of food. Be cautious as they might uproot plants and decorations in their quest for sustenance, necessitating secure anchoring of items in the aquarium.
The positive aspect is that with proper tank setup and careful selection of tank mates, their aggression can be managed.
Most Oscar varieties grow quickly, reaching sizes of up to 30cm in their lifetime. Keeping Oscars together is usually the safest option, but providing ample space is essential to reduce territorial conflicts.
While finding suitable tank mates can be challenging, maintaining a healthy diet for Oscars is not. Being omnivores, they accept a variety of foods, including flake or pellet options designed for cichlids. Live or frozen foods rich in protein, such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia, can also be offered to stimulate their natural hunting instincts.
Though Oscars may nibble at plants, this is usually a small part of their diet if they are adequately fed with other foods.
Oscars demand more care than many other species due to their size and hearty appetite, resulting in increased waste production. Regular cleaning, involving 20-25% water changes at least once a week, preferably twice, is crucial to maintaining optimal conditions.
While Oscars are hardier than most fish, they can still fall ill occasionally, emphasizing the importance of attentive care.
Species: Astronotus ocellatus WILD
Common Name: Wild Oscar Cichlid
Origin: South America (Brazil, Columbia, Ecuador, French Guiana, and Peru)
Diet: Omnivore
PH Range: Prefers neutral but can tolerate 6.5 – 7.5
Temperature: Tropical 26–28°C
Breed Type: Egg layer
Current Size: Approximately 5cm (Grows to approximately 30cm)
Sex: Un-sexed
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AU$80.00 Regular Price
AU$72.00Sale Price
Out of Stock
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