Tiger Oscar
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:George_Chernilevsky" title="User:George Chernilevsky">George Chernilevsky</a> (Public domain)
NameTiger Oscar
Scientific NameAstronotus ocellatus
Common NamesOscar, Tiger Oscar, Velvet Cichlid, Marble 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, Jaguar Cichlid, Green Terror Cichlid, Flowerhorn Cichlid, Silver Arowana, Bichir, Large Catfish (e.g., Synodontis)
Description
The Oscar is a large, intelligent, and popular South American cichlid known for its distinctive eye-spot on the caudal fin and variable coloration. They are highly interactive with their owners and can become quite tame, often recognizing individuals. Due to their size and predatory nature, they require a spacious aquarium and careful tankmate selection.
