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Freshwater fishTiger Oscar
Tiger Oscar
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The tiger oscar was the first variation bred from the wild black and white zebra oscar. Tiger oscars have broad, uneven red stripes on a black body. These fish have become favorite aggressive pet fish and prefer live feeders but will eat pellets.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Astronotus ocellatus (tiger variety) |
| Origin | Amazon basin, South America; aquarium-bred |
| 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. 1½–2" |
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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