© David J. Stang / CC BY-SA 4.0Silver Arowana
The Silver Arowana is a striking primitive fish native to the Amazon River basin. With its elongated, silver-flashing body, large scales, and graceful gliding motion just beneath the water's surface, it's one of the most eye-catching freshwater fish around. Growing to roughly 90 cm, it develops real presence in a tank and can become surprisingly responsive to its owner, often approaching the surface at feeding time. That said, a large aquarium and a secure, jump-proof lid are essential, along with careful water quality management, making this a fish best suited to experienced keepers.
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Apply as a breederSilver Arowana key facts
- Care level
- Advanced
- Lifespan
- 15+ years
- Size
- Up to about 90cm
- Temperature
- 24〜30℃
- Diet
- Fish flesh, prawns, mussels, insects, frozen foods
- Tank
- Adults reach 90cm and cannot be housed long term in a normal home tank. Plan for public-aquarium scale volume, and cover the whole surface with a heavy lid because this fish jumps.
- Water Temperature & Quality
- 24-30C, pH 5.0-7.5, 2-15 dGH. Tolerant of a wide range, but heavy feeding demands powerful filtration and regular water changes.
- Tank Mates
- Peaceful with anything too large to swallow, but a pecking order forms among conspecifics. Avoid other surface dwellers.
- Diet & Feeding
- Juveniles: bloodworm, small earthworms, chopped prawn. Adults: strips of fish flesh, whole prawns and mussels. Do not feed mammal or bird meat.
- Breeding & Spawning
- The male mouthbroods eggs and fry for about two months; typical brood size is 12-30. Unrecorded in home aquaria; trade fish come from outdoor farms.
- Health & Notes
- Jumping is the most common cause of loss, so use a gap-free lid. Growth is fast: size the system for the adult, not the fish you buy.
About Silver Arowana
Silver Arowana is a large primitive fish from the Amazon basin, known for its silver body and graceful surface-gliding swim. Growing to about 90 cm, it's a striking but advanced-level freshwater fish requiring a large, secure tank.
7 things to know before welcoming a Silver Arowana
1A Large Tank Is Essential
Silver Arowanas grow to about 90 cm, so they need a tank with enough length and depth to match their size, upgraded as they grow.
2Secure, Jump-Proof Lid
This fish is a powerful jumper and tends to swim near the surface, making tanks without a lid prone to jumping accidents. A sturdy, well-secured lid is a must.
3Advanced-Level Care
Silver Arowanas are considered suitable for experienced keepers. Managing water quality, feeding, and tank setup for a large fish takes solid prior knowledge before bringing one home.
4Best Kept Alone
They are territorial and can clash with tankmates, especially similarly sized fish. If mixing species, carefully consider compatibility and tank size.
5Carnivorous with a Large Mouth
With an upward-facing mouth built for snatching insects and small fish near the surface, it's a true carnivore. Anything small enough to fit in its mouth can become prey, so choose tankmates carefully.
6Sensitive to Water Changes
This fish doesn't tolerate sudden shifts in water quality or temperature well. Regular water changes and consistent filtration help keep it healthy.
7Becomes People-Friendly
Silver Arowanas can recognize their owner and often swim up to the surface at feeding time. Many keepers enjoy the personality that develops over time.
Frequently asked questions about Silver Arowana
- Q.Is the Silver Arowana suitable for beginners?
- A.Silver Arowanas are considered a fish for experienced keepers. Between managing a large tank and preventing jumping accidents, there's a lot of preparation involved, so it's best to have some tropical fish experience first.
- Q.How big a tank do I need?
- A.Since they can grow to about 90 cm, you'll need a large tank sized for their adult size. Many keepers upgrade tank size in stages as the fish grows.
- Q.Can it live with other fish?
- A.Because it's territorial and carnivorous, tankmates need careful thought. Anything small enough to fit in its mouth may be eaten, so calmer fish of a similar size are a safer choice.
- Q.Does it jump out of the tank?
- A.Silver Arowanas are strong jumpers and swim near the surface, so jumping accidents are common without precautions. A secure, well-fitted lid is essential.
- Q.Is the Silver Arowana subject to CITES?
- A.The Silver Arowana is not subject to CITES.
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