Red Tiger Oscar Cichlid (Astronotus ocellatus) - 1"-2" - Live Fish

DESCRIPTION OF ITEM:

The Red Tiger Oscar Cichlid (Astronotus ocellatus), a variation of the classic Oscar, is a vibrant and eye-catching freshwater fish, prized for its distinctive color patterns and bold personality. Known for its striking appearance and energetic nature, the Red Tiger Oscar is a popular choice among experienced aquarium enthusiasts.

Physical Appearance:

• Size: Red Tiger Oscars can grow to a considerable size, typically reaching 12-14 inches (30-35 cm) in length, with some individuals growing up to 18 inches (45 cm) in larger aquariums.
• Coloration: This variety is characterized by its rich red, orange, and black patterns. The body typically features a dark base with vibrant orange or red markings resembling tiger stripes, particularly on the fins and sides. The bold contrast of colors gives the fish a dramatic, fiery appearance.
• Body Shape: Similar to other Oscars, the Red Tiger Oscar has a broad, round body and a large head. Its shape is robust and well-suited for its active and territorial behavior.
• Fins: The dorsal fin is elongated, extending along the back, and the tail fin is forked. The fins also feature a blend of dark and light markings, contributing to the fish's striking visual appeal.

Behavior:

• Intelligent and Curious: Red Tiger Oscars are highly intelligent and can recognize their owners. They are also known to interact with their environment and can be trained to eat from a hand or respond to certain stimuli.
• Aggressive and Territorial: As with other Oscars, the Red Tiger variant is territorial and may exhibit aggression, particularly towards other fish that enter its perceived space. It is best kept with other large, non-aggressive fish that can handle its temperament.
• Active: The Red Tiger Oscar is an active swimmer, often exploring the tank and engaging with decorations, rocks, and plants. It is known to create a bit of a mess, often rearranging items in the tank with its powerful movements.

Habitat Requirements:

• Origin: Native to the Amazon Basin and other river systems in South America, Red Tiger Oscars are found in slow-moving waters with abundant vegetation.
• Water Conditions: They thrive in slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH range of 6.0-7.5 and a temperature range of 74-81°F (23-27°C). Oscars are hardy but require well-filtered water due to their high waste output.
• Tank Setup: A spacious tank is essential due to the Red Tiger Oscar's large size. A minimum tank size of 55 gallons is recommended for a single fish, but larger tanks are ideal for multiple Oscars or tankmates. The aquarium should include plenty of hiding spots, such as rocks or caves, as well as strong filtration to keep the water clean.

Diet:

• Carnivorous: Red Tiger Oscars are primarily carnivorous and thrive on a diet that includes high-quality pellets, live foods such as worms, brine shrimp, and small fish, and frozen foods like bloodworms. They may occasionally eat plant matter, but protein is essential for their health.

Lifespan:

• With proper care, Red Tiger Oscars can live 10-15 years in captivity.

Care Level:

• Intermediate to Advanced: While Red Tiger Oscars are relatively hardy, their large size, aggressive nature, and specific care needs make them better suited for intermediate or advanced fishkeepers who are familiar with cichlid care.

Conclusion:

The Red Tiger Oscar Cichlid is a stunning and dynamic fish, well-suited for experienced aquarists with larger tanks. Its vibrant colors, bold behavior, and intelligence make it a captivating addition to any aquarium. However, its territorial nature and size require careful consideration of tankmates and tank setup. With proper care and attention, the Red Tiger Oscar can be a long-lived and highly rewarding fish, providing a striking centerpiece in a well-maintained aquarium.