Oscar Cichlid
Image: <bdi><a href="https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108287599" class="extiw" title="d:Q108287599"><span title="Russian Wikimedian">Andrey Butko</span></a></bdi> (CC BY-SA 3.0)
NameOscar Cichlid
Scientific NameAstronotus ocellatus
Common NamesOscar Cichlid, Velvet Cichlid, Marble Cichlid, Tiger 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 SpeciesGreen Terror Cichlid, Jack Dempsey Cichlid, Large Plecos, Silver Dollar, Arowana (large tanks only), Tinfoil Barb, Redtail Catfish (very large tanks only)
Description
Oscars are large, intelligent South American cichlids known for their striking patterns and interactive personalities. They require spacious aquariums and robust filtration due to their messy eating habits and significant bioload. While generally semi-aggressive, they can become territorial, especially during breeding.
