Oscar Cichlid
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Mistvan" title="User:Mistvan">Mistvan</a> (CC BY-SA 3.0)
NameOscar Cichlid
Scientific NameAstronotus ocellatus
Common NamesOscar, Tiger Oscar, Velvet Cichlid, Marble Cichlid
FamilyCichlidae
OriginSouth America, Amazon Basin, Orinoco River, Paraná River
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietomnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)75
Max Size (Inches)14
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)74-80
pH Range6.0-7.5
Compatible SpeciesOther large Cichlids (e.g., Green Terror, Jack Dempsey), Large Plecos, Arowana, Silver Dollars, Large Catfish (e.g., Pictus Catfish, Synodontis Catfish)
Description
The Oscar Cichlid is a large, intelligent, and popular freshwater fish known for its distinctive patterns and interactive personality. It features an oval-shaped body, often with a dark base color adorned with irregular orange, red, or white blotches, and a prominent ocellus (eyespot) at the base of its caudal fin. These fish can grow quite large and require spacious aquariums with robust filtration.
