Astronotus crassipinnis Care Guide
Astronotus crassipinnis is a less common Oscar species from the southern Amazon and Paraná–Paraguay basins, often confused with A. ocellatus.
Overview
Astronotus crassipinnis is a large cichlid and a less common relative of the familiar Oscar, Astronotus ocellatus. It is generally darker than A. ocellatus and is often mistaken for it in the trade, where it is sometimes called the "fat Oscar". It reaches up to about 25 cm in length.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Astronotus
- Scientific name: Astronotus crassipinnis
Habitat
The species occurs in the southern Amazon basin and the Paraná–Paraguay basins of South America, a more southerly distribution than the northern Oscar. As with other Astronotus, it is associated with slow, structured waters.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 400 L
- Temperature: 22-28 °C (72-82 °F)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- GH: 5-18 °dGH
- Lifespan: 10-15 years
- Adult size: up to about 25 cm
Diet
Like other Oscars, Astronotus is a predatory carnivore that takes small fish, shrimp, snails, insects and insect larvae, and also fruits and nuts in the wild. In captivity quality cichlid pellets supplemented with live or frozen items such as earthworms and prawns are appropriate; feeder fish and mammalian or avian meat are best avoided.
Compatibility
Oscars are territorial and defend a claimed area without being exceptionally aggressive for their size. Their predatory nature makes small fish unsuitable as tankmates; robust species of comparable size are preferable, while small tetras, guppies and shrimp should be avoided.
Breeding
Astronotus species are biparental substrate spawners. Pairs clean a flat surface before laying, and both parents guard the eggs and provide extended care to the fry.