Oscar Cichlid
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=User:Anthropophoca&action=edit&redlink=1" class="new" title="User:Anthropophoca (page does not exist)">Anthropophoca</a> (CC0)
NameOscar Cichlid
Scientific NameAstronotus ocellatus
Common NamesOscar Cichlid, Oscar Fish, Velvet Cichlid, Marble Cichlid
FamilyCichlidae
OriginSouth America, Amazon Basin, Orinoco River, Paraná River
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietomnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)75
Max Size (Inches)14
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)74-80
pH Range6.0-7.5
Compatible SpeciesGreen Terror Cichlid, Jack Dempsey Cichlid, Large Plecos, Silver Dollars, Arowana (in very large tanks), Firemouth Cichlid
Description
The Oscar Cichlid is a large, intelligent, and charismatic freshwater fish known for its distinctive patterns and interactive personality. They are popular among aquarists but require spacious tanks and robust filtration due to their size and significant waste production. Oscars can be territorial and semi-aggressive, especially when breeding.
