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 Cichlid, Oscar Fish, Velvet Cichlid, Marble 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 SpeciesLarge Plecos, Green Terror Cichlid, Jaguar Cichlid, Flowerhorn Cichlid, Arowana, Large Silver Dollars
Description
The Oscar Cichlid is a large, predatory freshwater fish known for its intelligence and distinct personality. They typically display a mottled pattern, often with a prominent ocellus (eyespots) near the tail, and can grow quite large. Oscars require spacious aquariums and robust filtration due to their size and messy eating habits.
