Oscar Cichlid
Image: <p>André Karwath aka <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Aka" title="User:Aka">Aka</a> </p> (CC BY-SA 2.5)
NameOscar Cichlid
Scientific NameAstronotus ocellatus
Common NamesOscar, 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 SpeciesGreen Terror Cichlid, Jack Dempsey Cichlid, Convict Cichlid, Pleco (large species), Synodontis Catfish (large species)
Description
The Oscar Cichlid is a popular, large South American cichlid known for its intelligence, interactive personality, and striking color patterns. These predatory fish require a spacious aquarium and a robust filtration system due to their size and waste production.
