i'm totally new at this 'forum' thing, so this is supposed to be a reply to sa}{em -- let me know if it works.

I have the 'abandoned' oscar. Initially he spent a lot of time lying on his side on the bottom, now, after about a week he's not doing it quite so often. In addition to his 'hidey-hole' (small flowerpot), I built him a little bridge to hang out under. For some reason this may be keeping him upright a bit longer.

i really don't know what to do with him. I don't see him eat; occasionally he swims around. I've got 'new tank syndrome' w/somewhat high ammonia level; nitrite testing okay. Does he need a friend? What kind of friend do you have with yours?

I'm going out to buy a bottom feeder, just to try & clean up the uneaten food. Maybe that'll make him happy.

Just looking for somebody to talk to me about this Oscar!