Panda Oscar

Panda Oscar

Cichlidae

The Panda Oscar is a popular aquarium fish known for its vibrant colors and Moderate of care. It belongs to the family Cichlidae and is native to the South America

Types of Panda Oscar Fish

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Temperature

75-80°F (24-27°C)

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Minimum Tanksize

55 gallons (208 liters)

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Water type

1.005 - 1.015

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Suitable PH

6.0 - 8.0

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Native

South America

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Size

14-16 inches (35-40 cm)

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Life Span

10-15 years in captivity

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Caring

Moderate

How To Care For Panda Oscar

The Panda Oscar (Astronotus ocellatus) is a striking and unique variety of the popular Oscar fish, admired for its panda-like coloration and bold personality. This selectively bred freshwater cichlid features a distinct combination of contrasting black and white patches, reminiscent of a panda's iconic appearance. Originating from the wild Oscars of the Amazon River basin in South America, the Panda Oscar has become a favorite among aquarists for its captivating beauty, intelligence, and interactive behavior.

Reaching a typical size of 12 to 14 inches (30 to 35 cm) in length, the Panda Oscar has a robust, oval-shaped body with a striking color pattern. Its base coloration is often deep black or charcoal gray, interspersed with large white patches that can appear on the head, body, and fins. This stark contrast creates a panda-like effect, giving the fish a distinctive and eye-catching appearance. As the fish matures, its patterns may develop further, becoming even more prominent and defined.

Panda Oscars are highly intelligent and social fish, often described as "aquatic pets" due to their ability to recognize their owners, follow movements, and eagerly interact at feeding times. Like other Oscars, they are semi-aggressive and territorial, so tank mates should be chosen carefully. Suitable companions include other large, robust species such as bichirs, plecos, severums, and large catfish. Small or slow-moving fish should be avoided, as they may be mistaken for prey.

To provide a healthy environment for a Panda Oscar, a spacious tank of at least 75 gallons (284 liters) is essential for a single fish, with larger tanks recommended for pairs or community setups. Oscars thrive in stable water conditions with a temperature range of 74°F to 81°F (23°C to 27°C) and a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. A powerful filtration system is crucial to maintain water quality, as Oscars produce a significant amount of waste. The tank should include sturdy decorations such as driftwood, rocks, and securely anchored plants, though Oscars are known for rearranging their environment.

As omnivores, Panda Oscars require a balanced and varied diet to maintain their health and vibrant coloration. A high-quality cichlid pellet should serve as their staple diet, supplemented with live or frozen foods such as earthworms, krill, crickets, bloodworms, and small feeder fish. A nutritious diet will help enhance their bold black and white patterns and ensure their overall well-being.

With their unique panda-like markings, engaging personalities, and large size, Panda Oscars are a captivating addition to any freshwater aquarium. Their intelligence and social nature make them a joy to observe and interact with, while their distinctive appearance adds a touch of elegance and intrigue to the tank. With proper care, including a spacious aquarium, clean water, and a nutritious diet, the Panda Oscar can live for 10 to 15 years, making it a long-term and rewarding aquatic companion.

Panda Oscar is a fascinating aquarium fish that stands out with its vibrant colors. It belongs to the family Cichlidae and is native to the South America.

This species has a care level of Moderate and requires a minimum tank size of 55 gallons (208 liters). It typically reaches a size of 14-16 inches (35-40 cm).

Preferred water parameters include a specific gravity (sg) of 1.005 - 1.015, pH ranging from 6.0 - 8.0, and a temperature between 75-80°F (24-27°C). Additionally, maintaining water hardness within the range of 8-15 dGH is essential.

For stocking, the recommended ratio is 1:1 M:F. The Panda Oscar is widely available and has a diverse diet that includes Omnivorous; high-quality pellets, flakes, and live/frozen foods.

With a life span of 10-15 years in captivity, this species is known for its very easy care requirements. It is an ideal choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists. Providing a well-maintained tank environment with suitable water conditions will ensure the health and vibrancy of this captivating species.

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