Oscar Cichlid
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Petruss" title="User:Petruss">Petruss</a> (CC BY-SA 4.0)
NameOscar Cichlid
Scientific NameAstronotus ocellatus
Common NamesOscar, Oscar Cichlid, Velvet Cichlid, Marble Cichlid
FamilyCichlidae
OriginSouth America, Amazon Basin, Orinoco River Basin, Paraná River Basin
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietomnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)75
Max Size (Inches)14
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)74-81
pH Range6.0-7.5
Compatible SpeciesLarge Plecos, Arowanas, Green Terror Cichlid, Jaguar Cichlid, Silver Dollars
Description
The Oscar Cichlid is a large, intelligent freshwater fish known for its distinctive eye-spot pattern and engaging personality. They are popular among aquarists but require a spacious tank and robust filtration due to their size and significant waste production. Oscars can be semi-aggressive, especially when breeding or if housed in an undersized aquarium.
