OSCAR ALBINO LEMON TIGER 6CM

Albino Lemon Tiger Oscar (Astronotus ocellatus colour morph). This is a selectively bred colour morph of the Oscar cichlid combining albino traits (lack of melanin, typically red/pink eyes), lemon/yellow xanthophore dominance (golden-yellow base tones), and tiger-style patterning (irregular marbled or barred markings, often in muted orange, peach, copper, or tan over the yellow base). Exact appearance varies by bloodline—some show more distinct tiger markings, others lean more solid yellow-cream. Care is the same as for other Oscars, with one key adjustment for the albino component: reduced lighting intensity.

They grow quickly—often reaching 9–10 inches within the first year under good conditions.

TANK SET UP: Prefer longer tanks for stability and swimming space. Sand or fine gravel (they dig and rearrange). Use sturdy rocks, large driftwood, or caves that won’t be easily toppled. Floating plants or dense top cover help create shade. Secure lid—Oscars are excellent jumpers.

TANK MATE: Intelligent and personable—they often recognise owners and can be interactive or hand-fed.

• Best kept singly or as a carefully bonded pair in a large tank.

• Possible tankmates (only in 125+ gallon tanks with careful monitoring): other large, robust cichlids (e.g., larger Severums, some Geophagus), large catfish (e.g., Synodontis or suitable plecos), or similar-sized non-aggressive species.

AVOID: Small fish, fin-nippers, and overcrowding.

• Aggression can increase with limited space or during breeding attempts.

FILTRATION: Strong filtration is essential. Aim for 6–10× tank volume per hour turnover with quality media (canister filters are preferred). Oscars produce heavy waste.

MAINTENANCE: Ammonia & nitrite 0 ppm, nitrate ideally <20 ppm; keep under 40 ppm; 25–40% weekly water changes.

IMPORTANT: Poor water quality is a primary risk factor for Hole-in-the-Head (HITH/HLLE) disease.

FEEDING: A varied diet supports health, growth, and colour (carotenoids enhance yellow/orange tones).

• Staple: High-quality large cichlid pellets (e.g., Hikari Cichlid Gold or similar with good protein content).

• Supplements (2–4× weekly): Frozen or freeze-dried krill, shrimp, bloodworms, mysis; earthworms; occasional blanched vegetables (peas, zucchini) for fibre.

• Avoid as staples: Routine live feeder fish (disease and nutritional risks). Limit mammal meats.

• Schedule: Juveniles 2–3 small feedings daily. Adults once daily (or every other day).