Oscar Cichlid
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Gpkp" title="User:Gpkp">Gpkp</a> (CC BY-SA 4.0)
NameOscar Cichlid
Scientific NameAstronotus ocellatus
Common NamesOscar Cichlid, Oscar Fish, Velvet Cichlid, Marble Cichlid
FamilyCichlidae
OriginSouth America, Amazon Basin, Orinoco 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, Silver Dollars, Arowanas (in very large tanks), Other large, robust cichlids (with caution)
Description
The Oscar Cichlid is a large, intelligent, and charismatic freshwater fish known for its distinctive patterns and interactive personality. They are popular but require a spacious aquarium and diligent care due to their significant size and waste production. This particular specimen appears to be a color variant, likely a Red Oscar.
