Albino Tiger Oscar (Astronotus ocellatus)
The Albino Tiger Oscar is a striking white and red-orange colour variation of the classic Tiger Oscar. Popular with aquarium hobbyists, this fish is well known for its bold appearance, hardy nature, and highly interactive personality. Sometimes referred to as a Marble Cichlid or Velvet Cichlid, it is a standout South American cichlid best suited to large aquariums.
Albino Tiger Oscars grow to a substantial but manageable size and are recognised for their intelligence and responsiveness, often interacting with their owners at the glass. They thrive in spacious tanks with sand or gravel substrates and strong, well-secured decorations. As they may nibble on live plants and enjoy rearranging their environment, artificial plants and sturdy décor are usually the best option.
While generally less aggressive than many cichlids of similar size, Albino Tiger Oscars have a strong appetite and will eat any fish or invertebrate small enough to fit in their mouth. Territorial behaviour is most noticeable during spawning, so breeding pairs are best kept in a species-only setup. They tend to coexist more peacefully with tankmates when raised together from a young age. Due to their rapid growth and large adult size, a large aquarium, strong filtration, and regular water changes are essential for long-term health.
Feeding and Diet
Albino Tiger Oscars are not fussy eaters and readily accept high-quality pellets, frozen foods, and live meaty foods. They also benefit from some vegetable matter, which can be provided through spirulina-based foods or blanched vegetables such as spinach and shelled peas. Avoid feeding meat from mammals or birds, as this is unsuitable for their digestive system. A varied diet helps maintain good health and vibrant colouration.
Why This Fish Stands Out
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Striking white and red-orange colouration
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Hardy with a bold, engaging personality
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Can be bred in captivity
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A classic and well-known aquarium species
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Makes an impressive centrepiece fish in large tanks
Tank Requirements
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Temperature: 20 – 28°C
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pH: 6.0 – 7.5
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KH: 5 – 20
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Minimum Tank Size: 75 gallons for one adult, 100 gallons or more for multiple adults
Care Guidelines
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Diet: Omnivorous, requires high-quality meaty foods with some vegetable matter
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Social Behaviour: Forms loose groups as juveniles; may become territorial when spawning
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Origin: Tank bred, originally from South America
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Adult Size: 25 – 35 cm
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Juvenile Size at Purchase: Approximately 5 – 8 cm
With proper care, the Albino Tiger Oscar is a rewarding aquarium fish that brings both personality and visual impact to a large home aquarium.
