Oscar Cichlid
Image: <a rel="nofollow" class="external text" href="https://www.flickr.com/people/24710622@N05">Elma</a> from Reykjavík (CC BY 2.0)
NameOscar Cichlid
Scientific NameAstronotus ocellatus
Common NamesOscar, Velvet Cichlid, 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 SpeciesLarge Plecos, Arowana, Green Terror, Jaguar Cichlid, Flowerhorn Cichlid, Silver Dollar
Description
The Oscar Cichlid is a large, intelligent, and highly personable South American cichlid known for its interactive behavior and impressive size. They are popular aquarium fish, often recognized by their distinct patterns and various color morphs, including the albino or lutino form shown here. Oscars require spacious tanks and robust filtration due to their size and waste production.
