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, Tiger Oscar, Marble Cichlid, Velvet 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)72-82
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 distinctive patterns and engaging personality. These predatory fish require spacious aquariums and robust filtration due to their size and significant waste production. With proper care, Oscars can become very tame and interactive pets, often recognizing their owners.
