Oscar Cichlid
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:%D0%94%D0%BE%D0%BA%D1%82%D0%BE%D1%80_%D1%80%D1%83%D0%BA%D0%B8%D0%BD%D0%BE%D0%B3%D0%B8" title="User:Доктор рукиноги">Шатилло Г.В.</a> (CC BY-SA 3.0)
NameOscar Cichlid
Scientific NameAstronotus ocellatus
Common NamesOscar Cichlid, Oscar Fish, Marble Cichlid, Velvet Cichlid
FamilyCichlidae
OriginSouth America, Amazon Basin, Orinoco River, Paraná River
Temperamentaggressive
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, Jack Dempsey, Plec, Large Synodontis Catfish, Flowerhorn Cichlid
Description
The Oscar Cichlid is a large, intelligent, and predatory South American cichlid, often recognized by its distinctive eye-spot pattern on its caudal fin, though this specimen appears to be a color morph. They are popular aquarium fish due to their engaging personalities and ability to recognize their owners, but require significant space and dedicated care. Oscars are known for their territorial nature and can be quite destructive to aquarium decor.
