Oscar Cichlid
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Gpkp" title="User:Gpkp">Gpkp</a> (CC BY-SA 4.0)
NameOscar Cichlid
Scientific NameAstronotus ocellatus
Common NamesOscar, Tiger Oscar, Velvet Cichlid, Marble Cichlid
FamilyCichlidae
OriginSouth America, Amazon Basin, Orinoco River Basin, 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 Fish, Arowana (in very large tanks)
Description
The Oscar Cichlid is a large, intelligent, and highly interactive freshwater fish known for its distinctive patterns and engaging personality. They are popular among aquarists but require a spacious tank and robust filtration due to their significant size and waste production. Oscars can be semi-aggressive, especially towards smaller tankmates.
