
Oscar Cichlid
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=User:Ashish_Ghosh&action=edit&redlink=1" class="new" title="User:Ashish Ghosh (page does not exist)">Ashish Ghosh</a> (CC BY 3.0)
NameOscar Cichlid
Scientific NameAstronotus ocellatus
Common NamesOscar, Tiger Oscar, Velvet Cichlid, Marble Cichlid
FamilyCichlidae
OriginSouth America, Amazon Basin, Orinoco River, Paraná River
Temperamentaggressive
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, Green Terror Cichlid, Jaguar Cichlid, Flowerhorn Cichlid, Arowana, Large Catfish
Description
Oscars are large, intelligent, and predatory South American cichlids known for their distinctive patterns and engaging personalities. They require spacious aquariums and robust filtration due to their size and messy eating habits, making them a commitment for dedicated aquarists.


