Oscar Cichlid
Image: <div class="fn value"> <a rel="nofollow" class="external text" href="https://500px.com/ahbaruc">Baruc Acosta</a></div> (CC BY 3.0)
NameOscar Cichlid
Scientific NameAstronotus ocellatus
Common NamesOscar Cichlid, Velvet Cichlid, Marble Cichlid, Tiger Oscar
FamilyCichlidae
OriginSouth America, Amazon Basin, Orinoco River Basin, Paraná River Basin
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)75
Max Size (Inches)14
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)74-81
pH Range6.0-7.5
Compatible SpeciesOther large cichlids (e.g., Green Terror, Jack Dempsey), Large plecos, Silver Dollars, Arowanas (in very large tanks)
Description
The Oscar Cichlid is a large, intelligent, and popular freshwater fish known for its distinctive patterns and engaging personality. Native to South America, they are often kept in large aquariums where they can grow to impressive sizes. They require spacious tanks and a high-quality carnivorous diet.
