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, Paraná River, Paraguay River
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 SpeciesGreen Terror Cichlid, Jack Dempsey Cichlid, Large Plecos, Silver Dollars, Arowana
Description
The Oscar Cichlid is a large, intelligent, and popular freshwater fish known for its distinctive coloration and personality. They are native to South America and can grow quite large, requiring spacious aquariums and robust filtration. Oscars are known to be messy eaters and can be quite interactive with their owners.
