Astronotus Ocellatus «Albino Red» – Red Albino Oscar – South American Cichlid

Short Description:
The Astronotus Ocellatus «Albino Red», also known as the Red Albino Oscar, is a stunning South American Cichlid that will add vibrant color to your aquarium. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to care for this fish, including its habitat, tank setup, diet, behavior, breeding, and more.

Product Categories:
Cichlid South American, Fish

Product Description:
Scientific and Common Names:
The Astronotus Ocellatus «Albino Red», commonly known as the Red Albino Oscar, is a popular freshwater fish in the Cichlid family. Its scientific name is Astronotus ocellatus.

Habitat:
This species is native to the Amazon River basin in South America, where it can be found in slow-moving rivers, lakes, and flooded forests. They prefer warm waters with temperatures ranging from 74°F to 81°F (23°C to 27°C).

Tank Setup:
To provide a suitable environment for the Red Albino Oscar, a spacious aquarium of at least 75 gallons is recommended. Decorate the tank with rocks, driftwood, and plants to mimic their natural habitat. Ensure the tank has a secure lid as Oscars are known to jump.

Diet and Nutrition:
Red Albino Oscars are omnivorous and have a hearty appetite. Their diet should consist of high-quality pellets or flakes specifically formulated for Cichlids. Supplement their diet with live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and small fish.

Size and Growth Rate:
When properly cared for, Red Albino Oscars can grow up to 12-16 inches (30-40 cm) in length. They are fast growers and can reach a size of 6 inches (15 cm) within the first year.

Behavioral Traits:
Red Albino Oscars are known for their curious and intelligent nature. They are active swimmers and may rearrange the tank decor. They can be territorial and may exhibit aggressive behavior towards other tank mates, especially during breeding.

Care Level:
The care level for Red Albino Oscars is moderate. They require a well-maintained aquarium with regular water changes and proper filtration. Monitoring water parameters such as temperature, pH, and ammonia levels is crucial for their well-being.

Breeding and Reproduction:
Breeding Red Albino Oscars can be a rewarding experience. They are monogamous and form pairs. Provide a separate breeding tank with flat surfaces for them to lay their eggs on. The parents will guard and care for the eggs until they hatch.

Health and Disease Prevention:
To keep your Red Albino Oscar healthy, maintain good water quality and provide a balanced diet. Regularly monitor for signs of disease such as fin rot, ich, or bacterial infections. Quarantine new fish before introducing them to the main tank to prevent the spread of diseases.

Optimal Water Conditions:
The ideal water conditions for Red Albino Oscars include a temperature range of 74°F to 81°F (23°C to 27°C), pH level between 6.5 and 7.5, and hardness between 5 and 20 dGH.

Lifespan:
With proper care, Red Albino Oscars can live up to 10-15 years in captivity. Some individuals have been known to live even longer.

Additional Interesting Facts:
– Red Albino Oscars are a color morph of the common Oscar fish, displaying a vibrant red coloration.
– They are highly adaptable and can tolerate a wide range of water conditions.
– Oscars are known for their ability to recognize their owners and can be trained to hand-feed.
– They have a unique ability to produce grunting sounds by grinding their teeth together.
– Red Albino Oscars are popular among aquarium enthusiasts due to their striking appearance and engaging behavior.