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Freshwater fishRed Chili Oscar
Red Chili Oscar
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The chili oscar is the newest and very popular variation of the oscar family. Also known as the fire red oscar or the blood red oscar (though the color is closer to fire red), these pet fish are bred in Thailand. The fish features a solid bright red color with small cream highlights; these are in demand and expensive. Like all oscars, chili oscars are hardy and omnivorous and will eat flake and pellet foods.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Astronotus ocellatus (red chili variety) |
| Origin | Amazon basin, South America; bred in Thailand |
| Care Level | Easy to moderate |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive; eats smaller fish |
| Adult Size | Up to 12–14" |
| Lifespan | 10–15 years |
| Diet | Carnivore (meaty foods; takes pellets) |
| Water Temperature | 75–82°F |
| pH | 6.0–7.5 |
| Group Size | Single or pair |
| Shipping Size | Approx. 2–3" |
Care Guide
Tank setup: Use a sand bottom, a few large rocks or driftwood, strong filtration and a tight lid, since they can jump. Oscars often rearrange decorations and uproot plants.
Feeding: Feed a quality cichlid pellet once or twice a day. They also enjoy frozen foods like shrimp. Avoid feeder goldfish, which can carry disease.
Tankmates: Oscars can live with other large, peaceful-to-semi-aggressive fish like silver dollars, large plecos, severums and other oscars. They will eat any fish that fits in their mouth.
Good to know: Oscars are known as "water puppies" for their personality and often learn to recognize their owners and beg for food.
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