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Freshwater fishWild Zebra Oscar
Wild Zebra Oscar
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In the wilds of the Amazon River basin, the actual wild oscar is black with some white, hence the name zebra oscar. These oscars are less common than the tank-raised tiger and red oscars. Wild oscars are active and hardy and share the same characteristics as the aquarium-bred varieties. When larger, wild oscars get a bold red dot on the tail.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Astronotus ocellatus (wild type) |
| Origin | Amazon basin, South America |
| 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 | Small: 1½" · Medium: approx. 2" · Large: 4" |
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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