Oscars are very popular aquarium fish. These intelligent Cichlids are preferred by many aquarists because of their great individuality and character. Oscars are oval in shape; the dorsal, caudal and anal fins forming a rounded end to the fish. The main body color is black with patches of olive green and orange. Several varieties of Oscars have been bred over the years including Tiger Oscars, Long-Finned Oscars and Red Oscars. An Albino strain is also available. All varieties require the same care. Oscars are suspect to hole-in-the-head disease and body deformities as they age, due to the overbreeding of the species.

Tank Setup

These powerful fish, like most Cichlids, require a large tank with plenty of swimming space. Decorations must be durable enough to withstand the abuse that this fish is capable of dishing out. Oscars are very curious fish and will often take it upon themselves to see just what that hot, tubular device in the corner of the tank is doing there. Large rocks are recommended for decorations, with sand for the substrate. A powerful filtration system is a must when keeping these messy fish.

Feeding

Typical of large South American Cichlids, Oscars are carnivorous fish and thus need a diet based on meat and meaty foods. Recommended foods include beef heart, live fish, earthworms and night crawlers. Oscars are very messy eaters so delicate foods are not recommended as the fish will often spit the food out only to take it back in and spit it out once more, clouding the water.

Water Chemistry

These Cichlids have no special requirements when it comes to water conditions. A neutral pH and common water temperature will suffice. They are hardy fish that thrive under most conditions.

Breeding

Oscars are sexually mature once they reach a length of approximately 5 inches. Fish pair off and often stay together to breed several times. Females lay up to 2000 eggs on previously cleaned flats rocks. It is recommended to provide Slate rock to the breeding pair. The eggs are carefully guarded by both parents and hatch just days later. Sexing of these fish is impossible without dissection.