Oscar Fish Care Guide & Buying Tips (Tank Setup, Feeding, and Where to Buy in the U.S.)

Oscar fish (Astronotus ocellatus) are among the most popular and recognizable freshwater fish in the aquarium trade. Known for their intelligence, personality, and interactive behavior, Oscars are often described as "the dogs of the aquarium world." If you're looking for a bold centerpiece fish with attitude, color, and curiosity, the Oscar is a top choice.

In this guide, you'll learn:

• How to care for Oscar fish properly

• Ideal tank size and setup

• Feeding recommendations

• Compatible tank mates

• Where to buy healthy Oscars online in the U.S.

Oscar Fish Overview:

• Scientific Name: Astronotus ocellatus

• Common Names: Oscar, Tiger Oscar, Albino Oscar, Red Oscar

• Size: Up to 12–14 inches

• Lifespan: 10–15 years with proper care

• Temperament: Semi-aggressive, intelligent, territorial

• Water Parameters: 74–82°F, pH 6.5–7.5, soft to moderately hard

Tank Setup for Oscar Fish:

Feature	Recommendation
Tank Size	Minimum 75 gallons for one adult; 125+ gallons for pairs
Filtration	Powerful canister or sump system
Substrate	Sand or bare bottom (they dig constantly)
Decor	Driftwood, large rocks, minimal plants (they uproot)
Lid	Secure top; Oscars may jump

Oscars are messy eaters, so over-filtration and frequent water changes are key.

Oscar Feeding Guide: Oscar fish are omnivorous but prefer high-protein foods. For optimal health and color, provide a varied diet:

• Cichlid pellets (primary staple)

• Frozen or live shrimp

• Bloodworms or blackworms

• Crickets or mealworms (occasionally)

• Avoid feeder fish due to disease risk

Feed 1–2 times daily and avoid overfeeding to prevent water quality issues.

Oscar Fish Behavior & Compatibility:

• Highly interactive—many recognize their owners and beg for food

• Can be territorial or aggressive, especially when spawning

• Not ideal for small community fish

• Compatible with other large, robust cichlids or plecos, if space allows

Oscar Varieties for Sale: At RobsAquatics.com, we carry:

• Tiger Oscars (classic striped appearance)

• Albino Oscars (white with red/orange accents)

• Red Oscars (deep red with black contrast)

Each fish is quarantined, parasite-treated, and backed by our Live Arrival Guarantee.

🛒 Shop Oscar Fish Now →

Oscar Fish FAQs:

Q: How big do Oscar fish get?
A: Up to 12–14 inches in a large, well-maintained tank.

Q: Can I keep Oscars with other fish?
A: Yes, but only with other large, aggressive fish that can hold their own.

Q: Are Oscars good for beginners?
A: They're hardy but grow large and require strong filtration, so better for intermediate keepers.

Q: What is the best food for Oscars?
A: Cichlid pellets, shrimp, and the occasional live insect or frozen treat.

Where to Buy Oscar Fish Online: RobsAquatics.com offers healthy, vibrant Oscar fish shipped nationwide with fast overnight delivery. We specialize in high-quality cichlids and monster fish, including Oscars, and provide expert support before and after your order.

Why buy from us?

• Live Arrival Guarantee

• Expert handling and insulation

• Honest sizing and photos

• Hand-selected stock

🛒 Browse Available Oscars »

Final Thoughts: Oscar fish are one of the most rewarding species to keep, offering both personality and beauty. With proper care, they become a true centerpiece fish that interacts with you daily.

If you're ready to add a smart, bold fish to your tank, check out our current selection of Oscar fish at RobsAquatics.com.