How difficult is it to keep Asian Arowana?

Advanced. This is an advanced-level species. It requires specialized equipment and advanced husbandry skills with precise environmental control.

What is the lifespan of Asian Arowana?

The average lifespan of Asian Arowana is 20-30 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.

How large does Asian Arowana get?

Asian Arowana typically reaches 60-90cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.

What should I feed Asian Arowana?

Asian Arowana feeds on: Insects, crustaceans, small fish, pellets. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.

What is the typical price for Asian Arowana?

The price of Asian Arowana varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.

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Asian Arowana

Advanced

King of ancient fish. Gold and red varieties are stunningly beautiful. Majestic swimming near the surface is breathtaking.

Difficulty

Advanced

Temperature

22〜28℃

Lifespan

20-30 years

Size

60-90cm

Diet

Insects, crustaceans, small fish, pellets

About

The Asian arowana (Scleropages formosus), known as the dragonfish, is a large arowanid fish native to tropical rivers of Southeast Asia including Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam. Adults grow to 60–90 cm and are categorized by body color — gold cross-back, super red, blood red, green, and platinum — with the rarest color forms commanding extraordinarily high prices. Its large, mirror-like scales, elongated body, and the characteristic pair of barbels projecting from the lower jaw evoke the appearance of a dragon, making it the ultimate symbol of good fortune in Asian cultures. Solo keeping is standard, as multiple arowana will fight viciously. Despite their aggression toward other fish, arowanids are remarkably intelligent — they recognize their owners and respond to their presence. Secure lids are essential as they are powerful jumpers. The species is listed on CITES Appendix I; all commercially available specimens must be captive-bred with valid documentation. Diet includes carnivore pellets, frozen fish, shrimp, and large insects.

Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Lifespan of the Asian Arowana

The Asian Arowana lives 20-30 years.

Size of the Asian Arowana

The Asian Arowana grows to 60-90cm.

Temperature & humidity for the Asian Arowana

A minimum 150-cm aquarium is required, with water temperature of 26–30°C and slightly acidic to neutral conditions.

Basic Info

Origin

tropical rivers of Southeast Asia (Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam)

Care Specifications

Semi-aggressiveSolitaryBreeding: Very hard

Sources: Seriously Fish

References & Sources

Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team

The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.

Primary sources

Regulations & Conservation Status

Domestic law: The Asian arowana (Scleropages formosus, red-tailed, golden-back, etc.) is listed in CITES Appendix I, and international commercial trade is in principle prohibited. Within Japan, only individuals with registration certificates (with microchip implantation) based on the Species Conservation Law may be sold or transferred. The silver arowana and northern barramundi are not subject to regulation.

"Arawana" is a collective term for multiple species. In Japan, the primary trade consists of the non-regulated Silver Arowana (Osteoglossum bicirrhosum) and Northern Barramundi (Scleropages jardinii).

Sources: CITES Checklist (Scleropages formosus Appendix I) / Ministry of the Environment Endangered Species Conservation Act (Endangered Wild Fauna and Flora)

Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.