Oscar Cichlid
Image: <a rel="nofollow" class="external text" href="https://www.flickr.com/people/89279812@N07">harum.koh</a> from Kobe city, Japan (CC BY-SA 2.0)
NameOscar Cichlid
Scientific NameAstronotus ocellatus
Common NamesOscar, Velvet Cichlid, Tiger Oscar, Marble Cichlid
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 SpeciesGreen Terror Cichlid, Jack Dempsey Cichlid, Large Plecos, Silver Dollar Fish, Arowana
Description
Oscars are large, intelligent, and charismatic South American cichlids known for their striking patterns and interactive personalities. They are popular aquarium fish but require a spacious tank and robust filtration due to their significant size and waste production.
