Fishician®Diet
Carnivore – large cichlid pellets, live/frozen feeder fish, earthworms, shrimp
Aquarium species profile
Oscar
Astronotus ocellatus · South America (Amazon and Orinoco basins)
Minimum tank75 gal
Adult size12–14"
Care levelModerate
TemperamentAggressive
Temperature74–81°F
pH range6.0–8.0
Compatible tank mates
Other large cichlids of similar size (Jacks, Green Terrors), large Plecos
Tank mates to avoid
Small fish (will eat them), peaceful community fish, invertebrates
Care notes
Intelligent and personable. Heavy bioload requires strong filtration. Will rearrange décor and uproot plants. Can live 10–15 years.
Check the whole aquarium. Tank size alone does not establish compatibility. Confirm adult size, water overlap, social grouping, territory, diet, and the individual animals before stocking.