Oscar Cichlid
Image: <a rel="nofollow" class="external text" href="https://www.flickr.com/people/56295925@N07">Everglades NPS</a> from Homestead, Florida, United States (Public domain)
NameOscar Cichlid
Scientific NameAstronotus ocellatus
Common NamesOscar, Velvet Cichlid, Marble Cichlid, Tiger Oscar
FamilyCichlidae
OriginSouth America, Amazon Basin, Orinoco River Basin, Paraná River Basin
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietomnivore
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, Flowerhorn Cichlid, Large Plecos, Red Tail Catfish, Pimelodus Catfish
Description
Oscars are large, intelligent cichlids known for their distinct personalities and interactive behavior. Native to South America, they require a spacious aquarium with robust filtration due to their size and significant waste production. While generally semi-aggressive, they can be kept with other large, similarly tempered fish.
