Fish of the Amazon: The Oscar

Oscars prefer to consider themselves the predominant species inside aquariums. They are very territorial in many cases and do not like having a lot of competition around them. Besides their own personal tank preferences, the Oscar proves to be a pretty hardy fish. 

One of the major discomforts for an Oscar is to have a different breed of species in the aquarium alongside with them. As a primary defense, Oscars generally will intimidate other fish by chasing them around and snapping at them. Most territorial animals develop these natural, aggressive, and defensive animal instincts when they feel threatened and would like to claim a certain part their territory. Oscars are known for behaving in such a way.  They use animal communication that indicates to other invaders, “This is my territory!” 

Proper dieting for South American Oscars is a consistent amount of protein and vitamins. Avoid using small feeders if possible as they generally contain various bacteria's that can eventually turn fatal. However,  when Oscars are in their natural habitat, their diets consists of feeding off of other smaller fish. 

Feeders aren't healthy for Oscars. Diseases that feeders often carry is from the bacteria build up of an unclean tank and a mixture fish that also carry other germs and bacterias. One should pay close attention to an Oscar’s dieting and body. A good way to notice an Oscar’s health conditions is by looking closely at its body. A torn, scalely and holey fish represents poor dieting and or health. If the Oscar’s diet is unhealthy it'll have holes around its eyes, underneath its mouth, and on the top of its head. Feeders aren’t particularly the best meal to feed Oscars. Even every now and then can be a great risk, because the background of the feeders isn't known.