Astronotus ocellatus

The Oscar is a popular and intelligent freshwater fish known for its engaging personality, almost like a 'water dog'. They often learn to recognize their owners and may even take food from their hands. However, do not be fooled by their charm; they are not suitable for beginners with small aquariums. These fish grow very large and demand a spacious tank to live a healthy life. As carnivores, Oscars have a hefty appetite and are messy eaters, which leads to high waste production. A powerful filtration system is absolutely essential to maintain clean, healthy water. Their diet should be varied, consisting of high-quality cichlid pellets, supplemented with frozen or freeze-dried foods. Oscars are known for their territorial behavior and will actively defend their space. A unique characteristic is their tendency to 'redecorate' their environment by uprooting plants and moving small rocks, so a robust and simple tank setup is often best. Due to their predatory nature and size, they cannot be housed with small fish, which they will view as food. Their long lifespan makes them a significant, long-term commitment for any aquarist willing to meet their needs.