Oscar

Origin: South America: Orinoco through to the Rio Paraguay.

Temperament: Opinions differ. Some claim it to be peaceful, others aggresive.

Size: Up to 35cm (14")

Temperature: 81-86°F or 27-30°C

pH Level: The water should be slightly acid, around 6.5, and soft.

Food: Virtually anything! Flake food, pellets, chopped meat, worms, crustaceans.

Tank Setup: Needs a very large tank with plenty of swimming space. Plants are not advisable as they will frequently be torn up. In this case, use floating plants if you so desire. Otherwise have tree roots and rocks as decoration. This fish is best kept in a species tank.

Breeding: Breeding these fish is arguably difficult! Spawning takes place on a flat rock, and the site is guarded by both parents until they start to hatch, which should take place after 3-4 days. After hatching they are taken to a shallow pit where they are again guarded by the parents until they become free swimming after just under one week. Once swimming, they will take small live food such as brine shrimp or rotifers.

Sexing: Unclear.

Comments: It is often said this fish is responsible for "multiple tank syndrome" - by this we mean they are purchased by the inexperienced as small fish and put in small tanks, and quickly outgrow their accommodation forcing the purchase of another tank! Not recommended for the beginner, due to the fish's size and demanding nature.