Oscar Cichlid
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Citron" title="User:Citron">Citron</a> (CC BY-SA 3.0)
NameOscar Cichlid
Scientific NameAstronotus ocellatus
Common NamesOscar Cichlid, Velvet Cichlid, Marble Cichlid, Tiger Oscar, Red Oscar
FamilyCichlidae
OriginSouth America, Amazon Basin, Orinoco River, Paraná 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 SpeciesOther large, robust cichlids (e.g., Green Terror, Jack Dempsey), Large Plecos, Silver Dollars, Arowana
Description
The Oscar Cichlid is a large, intelligent, and popular freshwater fish known for its distinct personality and impressive size. This particular specimen displays a leucistic coloration, often called a Red Oscar, characterized by a light body with striking red or orange markings and dark eyes. They are native to the Amazon Basin and require a spacious aquarium with robust filtration.
