Tiger Oscar - (Astronotus ocellatus)

🐟 Tiger Oscar – (Astronotus ocellatus) – Popular South American Cichlid for Sale

The Tiger Oscar (Astronotus ocellatus) is one of the most popular and recognizable South American cichlids, known for its bold orange-and-black mottled pattern, large size, and intelligent, interactive personality. Native to slow-moving rivers and floodplains of the Amazon Basin, this hardy and adaptable fish has become a favorite among cichlid keepers worldwide. Tiger Oscars are highly social with their owners, often recognizing and interacting with them, but they can be aggressive toward smaller fish.

🔎 Quick Facts – Tiger Oscar (Astronotus ocellatus)

• 📛 Common Name: Tiger Oscar, Velvet Cichlid
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Astronotus ocellatus
• 🌍 Origin: South America – Amazon Basin, Orinoco Basin
• 🎨 Appearance: Dark base color with vivid orange mottling and marbling; rounded body with large fins
• 📏 Max Size: 12–14 inches (30–35 cm)
• 💎 Availability: Common; widely bred in captivity in various color morphs

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• ⚔️ Semi-aggressive; territorial, especially during breeding
• 🐟 Highly intelligent and interactive with owners
• 🌿 Best kept with large, robust tankmates

🏠 Aquarium & Tank Requirements

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 75+ gallons for a single Oscar
• 🪵 Provide large open swimming space with sturdy décor
• 🪨 Strong filtration required due to high waste production
• 💡 Moderate lighting enhances color patterns

💧 Water Parameters – Tiger Oscar Care

• 🌡️ Temperature: 74–81°F (23–27°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 6.5–7.5
• 💧 Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water

🍽️ Diet – Omnivorous Cichlid

• 🐟 High-quality cichlid pellets as a staple diet
• 🦐 Frozen or live foods such as shrimp, worms, and small fish (non-feeder preferred)
• 🌽 Fresh vegetables like peas or spinach for variety

📋 Tiger Oscar Overview Table

✨ Highlight:
The Tiger Oscar is a striking, intelligent, and interactive cichlid with vibrant colors and a bold personality, making it one of the most popular choices for large freshwater aquariums.