Oscar Cichlid

Astronotus ocellatus

CichlidsIntermediate
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Species Details

Oscars are among the most intelligent and interactive freshwater fish. Large, robust cichlids from South America that develop strong bonds with their owners and can live for many years.

Intermediate Care Level

Basic Information

Size25-35 cm (10-14 inches)
TemperamentAggressive
DietOmnivorous
Lifespan12-15 years
Tank Size300+ litres (75+ gallons)

Water Parameters

Temperature
24-29°C (75-84°F)
pH Level
6.0-7.5
Hardness
5-20 dGH

Tank Mate Recommendations

Based on 1 selected species

Current Selection:

Oscar Cichlid
Fully Compatible Species
Compatible

Pleco Catfish

Various Hypostomus, Pterygoplichthys species

Catfish
Size:15-45 cm (6-18 inches)
Care Level:Intermediate
Temperament:Peaceful but territorial
100%
Compatible

Freshwater Sharks

Various Epalzeorhynchos, Labeo species

Sharks
Size:10-60 cm (4-24 inches)
Care Level:Intermediate
Temperament:Semi-aggressive
100%
Compatible

Larger Catfish

Various Pimelodus, Pseudoplatystoma species

Catfish
Size:15-60+ cm (6-24+ inches)
Care Level:Advanced
Temperament:Peaceful but predatory
100%
Compatible

Suckermouth Catfish

Various smaller Ancistrus, Otocinclus species

Catfish
Size:3-15 cm (1-6 inches)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful
100%
Compatible

New World Cichlids

Various Central/South American species

Cichlids
Size:10-35 cm (4-14 inches)
Care Level:Intermediate
Temperament:Semi-aggressive to Aggressive
100%
Compatible

Freshwater Plants

Various aquatic plant species

Plants
Size:2-50+ cm (1-20+ inches)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Beneficial
100%

💡 Tank Mate Tips

• Consider adult size when planning tank space

• Research specific water parameter requirements

• Introduce new fish gradually to reduce stress

• Monitor behavior closely during the first weeks

Quick Facts

Large, intelligent South American cichlid

Can grow up to 35 cm (14 inches)

Extremely personable and interactive with owners

Requires very large aquarium (300+ litres)

Messy eater that produces significant waste

Lives 12-15 years with proper care

Needs powerful filtration system

Can be trained to do simple tricks

Aggressive towards smaller fish

Popular "pet fish" due to intelligence

Compatibility Summary

Compatible Species6
Requires Caution6
View full compatibility analysis →

Care Requirements

Tank Size300+ litres (75+ gallons)
Temperature24-29°C (75-84°F)
pH6.0-7.5
Hardness5-20 dGH

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