Oscar Cichlid
Image: <a rel="nofollow" class="external text" href="https://www.flickr.com/people/89279812@N07">harum.koh</a> from Kobe city, Japan (CC BY-SA 2.0)
NameOscar Cichlid
Scientific NameAstronotus ocellatus
Common NamesOscar, Velvet Cichlid, Marble Cichlid
FamilyCichlidae
OriginSouth America, Amazon Basin, Orinoco River
Temperamentaggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)75
Max Size (Inches)12
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)74-81
pH Range6.0-7.5
Compatible SpeciesGreen Terror Cichlid, Jack Dempsey Cichlid, Large Plecostomus, Silver Dollar, Arowana
Description
The Oscar Cichlid is a large, intelligent, and charismatic South American cichlid known for its distinctive patterns and engaging personality. These fish are popular in the aquarium hobby but require significant space and dedicated care due to their size, messy eating habits, and territorial nature.
