Complete beginner's guide to arowana care covering large tank requirements, filtration, temperature management, differences between silver and Asian arowana, and feeding.
Key Takeaways
Complete beginner's guide to arowana care covering large tank requirements, filtration, temperature management, differences between silver and Asian arowana, and feeding.
Arowanas are the dream fish of tropical fish enthusiasts, coveted for their overwhelming presence and the mystical beauty of an ancient fish species. Known as "dragon fish," they are considered auspicious in feng shui and enjoy widespread popularity worldwide, particularly across Asia. However, keeping arowanas requires large-scale equipment and specialized knowledge. This article explains everything beginners need to know about arowana care.
There are several species of arowanas, with significant differences in difficulty to care for, size, and price.
Silver Arowana (Osteoglossum bicirrhosum)
Native to the Amazon in South America, the silver arowana is the most common and readily available species. It grows to 60–90 cm, requiring a large aquarium. Its beautiful silvery-white body and relatively affordable price make it a popular choice.
Asian Arowana (Scleropages formosus)
Native to Southeast Asia, this species comes in diverse color variations including gold, red, and green. Gold arowanas can fetch prices exceeding one million yen. Listed in CITES Appendix I, importing and keeping this species requires official documentation.
Black Arowana (Osteoglossum ferreirai)
A South American species in the same genus as the silver arowana. Juveniles display striking black and yellow contrast, but gradually turn silver as they mature.
Australian Arowana (Scleropages jardinii)
Native to Australia, this species is favored by enthusiasts for its distinctive patterning. It tends to have a more aggressive temperament than Asian arowanas.
Tank Size
Arowanas grow to 60–90 cm, eventually requiring a tank of at least 180 cm. While juveniles (20–30 cm) can be kept in a 90 cm tank, plan for an upgrade early since they grow quickly.
Tank length is equally important. Arowanas swim near the surface and need space to turn around. Tank depth should ideally be at least half the fish's length.
Filter System
A combination of an overhead filter and external filter is standard. Arowanas are heavy feeders with high waste output, so powerful filtration is essential. Target a filtration rate of at least 3–5 times the tank volume per hour.
Tank Cover
Arowanas are strong jumpers and will escape if the tank isn't covered. Always use a sturdy lid and keep it closed except during feeding.
Temperature: 26–28°C (controlled by heater)
pH: 6.0–7.5 (varies by species)
Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water
Ammonia and Nitrite: Should not be detectable
Nitrate: Below 40 ppm
Perform water changes 1–2 times weekly, changing 20–30% of the total volume. Large fish produce substantial waste, so water quality deteriorates quickly. Test regularly with a water quality test kit.
Arowanas are carnivorous and prefer the following foods:
Live and Frozen Foods
Acclimating to Artificial Food
Arowanas accustomed to live food often refuse artificial feed, but gradually mixing it in can work well. Specialty large-grain pellets are available, and once acclimated, fish can be maintained entirely on artificial food.
Feeding Frequency
Feed juveniles 2–3 times daily and adults once daily. Uneaten food degrades water quality, so provide only what they can consume in 5–10 minutes.
Arowanas are best kept alone. Housing with other arowanas or the same species causes serious aggression. Compatible species that inhabit lower water levels include plecos, oscars, and large polypterids, though ample tank space is required.
Asian arowanas are listed as endangered species. Importing them to Japan requires a CITES certificate. Always purchase from authorized sources with proper documentation and keep it safely. Purchasing undocumented individuals is illegal.
Arowana care demands significant investment in equipment and skilled care, but the rewards and appeal are unmatched. Asian arowanas can live for decades, making them long-term companions. Start by setting up proper equipment, then source healthy specimens from reputable breeders.
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