Tiger Oscar
Image: <a rel="nofollow" class="external text" href="https://www.flickr.com/people/39107352@N08">Ramesh NG</a> (CC BY-SA 2.0)
NameTiger Oscar
Scientific NameAstronotus ocellatus
Common NamesOscar, Tiger Oscar, Velvet Cichlid, Marble Cichlid
FamilyCichlidae
OriginSouth America, Amazon Basin
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietcarnivore
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, Jack Dempsey, Severum, Pleco, Arowana, Large Catfish
Description
The Oscar, also known as the Tiger Oscar or Velvet Cichlid, is a large and popular freshwater cichlid native to the Amazon Basin in South America. Known for its intelligent and interactive personality, this species can grow quite large and requires a spacious aquarium. Oscars are semi-aggressive carnivores that thrive in well-maintained tanks with appropriate tankmates.
