Albino Tiger Oscar (Astronotus ocellatus)

Albino Tiger Oscar (Astronotus ocellatus)

The Albino Tiger Oscar is a striking white and red-orange variation of the classic Tiger Oscar. It’s a favorite among fish keepers thanks to its bold appearance, hardy nature, and interactive personality. Also known as the Marble Cichlid or Velvet Cichlid, this large South American cichlid is a standout species in any big aquarium.

Growing to a substantial but manageable size, Albino Tiger Oscars are known for their intelligence and responsiveness to their owners. They thrive in spacious tanks with a sand or gravel substrate, along with sturdy decorations that won’t easily topple. Since they may nibble on plants, artificial ones are often the better choice. Like many cichlids, they have a habit of rearranging their environment, so it’s important to secure decorations properly.

While they are generally less aggressive than many other cichlids of similar size, they have a strong appetite and will eat any fish or invertebrate small enough to fit in their mouth. Their territorial nature is most noticeable during spawning, so if breeding is planned, it’s best to keep them in a species-only setup. They also tend to coexist more peacefully with tankmates when raised together from a young age. Given their rapid growth and large adult size, a spacious aquarium is necessary from an early stage, along with strong filtration and frequent water changes to maintain water quality.

Feeding & Diet

Albino Tiger Oscars are not picky eaters and will readily consume high-quality dry, frozen, and live meaty foods. However, they also need some vegetable content, which can be provided through spirulina-based foods or fresh greens like blanched spinach and shelled peas. Avoid feeding them meat from mammals or birds, as this is unhealthy for them. A varied diet ensures they stay in top condition and display their best coloration.

Why This Fish Stands Out:

• Stunning white and red-orange coloration
• Hardy and full of personality
• Can be bred in captivity
• A well-known and classic aquarium fish
• Makes an impressive centerpiece in a large tank

Tank Requirements:

• Temperature: 68° - 82.4°F (20° - 28°C)
• pH: 6.0 - 7.5
• KH: 5 - 20 KH
• Minimum Tank Size: 75+ gallons for one adult, 100+ gallons for multiple adults

Care Guidelines:

• Diet: Omnivorous – requires a mix of high-quality meaty foods and some vegetable matter
• Social Behavior: Forms loose groups as juveniles; both males and females may become territorial when spawning
• Origin: Tank-bred, originally from South America
• Adult Size: 10 - 14 inches (25 - 35 cm)
• Juvenile Size at Purchase: Around 2 - 3 inches (2.5 - 7.6 cm)

With proper care, the Albino Tiger Oscar is a rewarding fish that brings both beauty and personality to a home aquarium!