Oscar

Astronotus ocellatus

Minimum Tank Size

75 gal for one; larger for tank mates

Temperature

74–81°F

PH

6.0–8.0

Adult Size

10–14 in

Temperament 

Large, territorial, predatory

Care Difficulty

Intermediate

Diet & Feeding

Quality cichlid pellets as staple; supplement with varied frozen/fresh foods.

Care Instructions

Provide open swimming room, sturdy decor and excellent water quality. Plan for heavy waste and adult size.

Flow & Filtration

Strong filtration and high oxygenation; moderate flow with calmer resting areas.

Planted Tank Suitability

May uproot plants; hardy attached plants are more practical.

Tank Mate Compatibility

Good Tank Mates
  • Severum
  • Silver Dollar
  • Large Pleco

Use Caution 
  • Jack Dempsey
  • Bichir
  • Large Catfish

Avoid
  • Guppy
  • Neon Tetra
  • Betta
  • Freshwater Shrimp

Compatibility Notes

Tank mates must be too large to swallow, robust enough for cichlid behavior, and suited to similar water conditions. Individual temperament varies.

Breeding Notes

Substrate-spawning cichlid; pairs clean a flat surface and guard eggs/fry.