Oscar Cichlid
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Tylwyth_Eldar" title="User:Tylwyth Eldar">Tylwyth Eldar</a> (CC BY-SA 4.0)
NameOscar Cichlid
Scientific NameAstronotus ocellatus
Common NamesOscar Cichlid, Oscar Fish, Marble Cichlid, Velvet Cichlid
FamilyCichlidae
OriginSouth America, Amazon Basin, Orinoco River, Paraná River
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)75
Max Size (Inches)14
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)74-80
pH Range6.0-7.5
Compatible SpeciesLarge Plecos, Silver Dollars, Arowanas, Green Terrors, Jack Dempseys, Firemouth Cichlids
Description
The Oscar Cichlid is a large, intelligent, and popular South American cichlid known for its striking coloration and interactive personality. They are robust fish that can grow quite large, requiring a spacious aquarium and diligent care. Oscars are known to be messy eaters and produce a significant bioload.
