
Oscar Cichlid
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=User:Germano_Roberto_Sch%C3%BC%C3%BCr&action=edit&redlink=1" class="new" title="User:Germano Roberto Schüür (page does not exist)">Germano Roberto Schüür</a> (CC BY-SA 4.0)
NameOscar Cichlid
Scientific NameAstronotus ocellatus
Common NamesOscar Cichlid, Oscar Fish, Marble Cichlid, Velvet Cichlid, Tiger Oscar, Apaiari
FamilyCichlidae
OriginSouth America, Amazon Basin, Orinoco River Basin
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, Arowanas, Green Terrors, Jack Dempseys, Silver Dollars
Description
The Oscar Cichlid is a large, intelligent, and popular freshwater fish known for its striking patterns and engaging personality. Native to South America, they are predatory cichlids that require spacious aquariums and robust tankmates.




