Do oscar fish have nostrils?

Yes, oscar fish have nostrils. Oscar fish belong to the cichlid family. Unlike other freshwater fish, cichlids are unique for having nostril-like openings called nares. And just like other cichlids, oscar fish have a nostril or nare on each side of their snouts.

Unlike mammals, an oscar fish’s nostrils or nares don’t lead to the throat, but rather to a chamber. This chamber is lined with sensory pads, which will pick up certain chemical signals from the water to help the fish avoid predators, find food, and choose mates.