Oscar Cichlid
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=User:Francesco_Crovetto&action=edit&redlink=1" class="new" title="User:Francesco Crovetto (page does not exist)">Francesco Crovetto</a> (CC BY-SA 4.0)
NameOscar Cichlid
Scientific NameAstronotus ocellatus
Common NamesOscar Cichlid, Velvet Cichlid, Marble Cichlid, Tiger Oscar
FamilyCichlidae
OriginSouth America, Amazon Basin, Orinoco River, 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 SpeciesJack Dempsey, Green Terror, Arowana, Large Plecos, Silver Dollars, Firemouth Cichlid
Description
Oscars are large, intelligent, and charismatic South American cichlids known for their striking patterns and interactive personalities. They require spacious aquariums with excellent filtration due to their size and significant waste production. While generally semi-aggressive, they can become territorial, especially during breeding.
