Oscar Cichlid
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=User:Wellerson_Santana&action=edit&redlink=1" class="new" title="User:Wellerson Santana (page does not exist)">Wellerson Santana</a> (CC BY-SA 4.0)
NameOscar Cichlid
Scientific NameAstronotus ocellatus
Common NamesOscar Cichlid, Oscar Fish, Marble Cichlid, Velvet Cichlid, Tiger Oscar
FamilyCichlidae
OriginSouth America, Amazon Basin, Orinoco River Basin
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)75
Max Size (Inches)14
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)74-80
pH Range6.0-7.5
Compatible SpeciesLarge Plecos, Arowanas, Green Terrors, Jack Dempseys, Firemouth Cichlids, Silver Dollars, Large Catfish
Description
The Oscar Cichlid is a large, intelligent, and charismatic South American cichlid known for its distinctive ocellus (eye-spot) on its caudal fin. They are popular aquarium fish due to their interactive personalities and striking appearance. Oscars require a spacious tank and robust filtration due to their size and messy eating habits.
