Oscar Cichlid
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Dtarazona" title="User:Dtarazona">Dtarazona</a> (CC BY-SA 3.0)
NameOscar Cichlid
Scientific NameAstronotus ocellatus
Common NamesOscar Cichlid, Oscar Fish, Marble Cichlid, Velvet Cichlid, Acarahuazu
FamilyCichlidae
OriginSouth America, Amazon Basin, Orinoco River Basin, Paraná River
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietomnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)75
Max Size (Inches)12
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)74-81
pH Range6.0-7.5
Compatible SpeciesLarge Plecos, Arowanas, Green Terrors, Jack Dempseys, Firemouth Cichlids, Silver Dollars
Description
The Oscar Cichlid is a large, intelligent, and popular freshwater fish known for its distinct personality and striking patterns. Native to the Amazon Basin, they require a spacious aquarium with robust filtration due to their size and messy eating habits. Oscars are known to be quite destructive to tank decor and can be aggressive, especially when breeding.
