Oscar Cichlid
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Kulmalukko" title="User:Kulmalukko">Tiia Monto</a> (CC BY-SA 4.0)
NameOscar Cichlid
Scientific NameAstronotus ocellatus
Common NamesOscar Cichlid, Oscar Fish, Marble Cichlid, Velvet 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 Cichlid, Jack Dempsey Cichlid, Silver Dollars, Firemouth Cichlid
Description
The Oscar Cichlid is a large, intelligent South American cichlid known for its distinctive eye-spot pattern on the caudal fin and variable coloration. They are popular but require significant tank space and robust filtration due to their size and messy eating habits. Oscars can be quite interactive with their owners.
