Bumblebee Oscar (Astronotus orbicularis)

Bumblebee Oscar (Astronotus orbicularis)

The Bumblebee Oscar is a rare and visually striking variant of Oscar cichlid, featuring bold black patterning contrasted with vibrant yellow to orange highlights—resembling the coloration of a bumblebee. This South American species combines the classic Oscar personality—interactive, intelligent, and aggressive—with a unique, high-contrast look that stands out in any aquarium. A true centerpiece fish, the Bumblebee Oscar is ideal for hobbyists looking for both personality and color.

Diet

Bumblebee Oscars are omnivorous with strong carnivorous tendencies:

• High-quality cichlid pellets (staple diet)
• Frozen foods (bloodworms, shrimp, krill)
• Fresh foods (earthworms, insects, chopped fish)
• Occasional vegetables for balance

Avoid overfeeding, as Oscars are prone to obesity.

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 75 gallons (juvenile), 100–125+ gallons for adults
• Water Type: Freshwater
• Temperature: 74–81°F
• pH: 6.0–7.5
• Setup: Open swimming space with durable décor; Oscars may rearrange substrate and decorations

Strong filtration is essential due to their heavy bioload.

Size

• Current Sale Size: Typically 2–4 inches

Max Size

• Maximum Adult Size: 12–14 inches

Tank Mates

Oscars are territorial and can be aggressive:

• Compatible: Large cichlids, silver dollars, plecos, and other robust fish
• Use caution: With semi-aggressive fish; monitor for aggression
• Avoid: Small fish (will be eaten), delicate or slow-moving species

Tank mates should be similar in size and temperament.

Temperament

Semi-aggressive to aggressive. Highly intelligent and interactive—often recognizing their owners and responding to movement outside the tank.