Oscar habitat & algae problem (2 questions)

[Deniz]

What does an Osacrs natural habitat look like? I'd like to make it as close to their natural habitat as I possible can but I have no idea (ie is it sandy bottom, rocks/norocks, what kind of plants?)

I had ambulias growing in their tank and they (the oscars) got rid of them all... the only plant they wont touch is the amazon swordplant.... and since the ambulias dissapeared, algae has taken over.. I'm cleaning the tank glass 3 times a week, cleaning the filters 2 times a week as well as my weekly water change.. I dont want to resort to chemical warfare against the algae and I dont know what to do... Any help on these 2 questions..?

Thanks.

 

[Gulp]

I know this doesn't answer your question, but where is your tank in relation to sunlight? How long do you leave your tank lights on each day? I am just wondering what's causing such an algae explosion.

Found in the tropical lowlands of South America, A. ocellatus prefers the floodplains and swamps of the Amazon River basin. They are most comfortable in water about 25 degrees Celsius, or slightly higher for breeding. (Kullander, 1996)

I am still trying to find some pics of what an "Amazon River basin" looks like exactly.... If you find any, be sure to post them for the rest of us.