Apaiari
Astronotus ocellatus
Advanced
Freshwater
Territorial, intelligent, changes color, solitary (but can be kept in groups in large tanks), rearranges the environment. Omnivorous (insects, crustaceans, small fish, plant matter).
Cichlidae
Max Size
35.0 cm (13.8")
Min Tank
600 L (159 gal)
Min Group
1+
Diet
Omnivore - food, algae, larvae
Water Parameters
Temperature
22.0-28.0°C
72-82°F
pH
6.0-7.5
Hardness (dGH)
6.0-30.0
Min Tank Size
600 L
159 gal
About
Fish species native to South America (Amazon Basin and Orinoco rivers).
Behavior & Temperament
Territorial, intelligent, changes color, solitary (but can be kept in groups in large tanks), rearranges the environment. Omnivorous (insects, crustaceans, small fish, plant matter).
Feeding
Omnivore - food, algae, larvae
Breeding
Monogamous, biparental substrate spawner, 300–3000 eggs, reaches maturity in one year.
Care Notes
Sensitive to parameter fluctuations. Sensitive to ammonia. Needs hiding spots. Prefers dark substrate
Compatibility
Territorial, may be aggressive with conspecifics
Quick Summary
| Scientific Name | Astronotus ocellatus |
|---|---|
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Category | Fish |
| Care Level | Advanced |
| Water Type | Freshwater |
| Max Size | 35.0 cm (13.8") |
| Min Tank | 600 L (159 gal) |
| Min Group | 1+ |
| Diet | Omnivore - food, algae, larvae |
| Temperament | Territorial, intelligent, changes color, solitary (but can be kept in groups in large tanks), rearranges the environment. Omnivorous (insects, crustaceans, small fish, plant matter). |
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