arowana fish

Arowana Care Guide

Introduction

Arowanas are sleek, predatory fish known for their elegant appearance and unique personalities. They come in various colors such as silver, gold, and red. These fish are renowned for their potential to grow quickly, up to 2 inches per month, and can bring good luck according to some beliefs.

Appearance & Behavior

Arowanas boast long bodies and distinct scales. Their mandibular barbels act as sensory tools, detecting movement on the water's surface. They're known to leap out of tanks without secure lids and jump from the water in pursuit of prey. These aggressive feeders will consume most items that fit into their large mouths. While young, they may be sociable, but as they mature, they often prefer solitude.

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Care and Characteristics

- Care Difficulty: Intermediate to advanced.

- Lifespan: 10-20+ years with proper care.

- Adult Size: Up to 3 feet, depending on species.

- Diet: Carnivorous.

- Minimum Tank Size: At least 150 gallons.

- Water Temperature: 72-82°F.

Habitat

When housing an arowana, ensure the tank is wide and long, as they are surface swimmers. A minimum 150-gallon tank is recommended for adult arowanas to keep them healthy. 

- Tank Setup: Use a tight-fitting lid to prevent jumping.

- Water Quality: Proper filtration and moderate to strong circulation help maintain high oxygen levels and water quality. Test and maintain stable water parameters.

- Temperature Control: Use an aquatic heater to maintain stable water temperatures.

Feeding

Arowanas are carnivores and require a well-balanced diet that includes:

- Floating pellets designed for surface-feeding carnivorous fish.

- Live, frozen, or freeze-dried foods such as fish, insects, krill, worms, and shrimp.

When feeding:

- Feed young arowanas 2-3 times daily and adults once daily.

- Only offer as much as they can consume in 1-2 minutes.

- Thaw frozen foods before serving.

Tank Mates

Adult arowanas are best kept alone due to their size and feeding habits. If you house them with other fish, ensure the companions are large enough not to be swallowed and avoid other aggressive fish that may damage the arowana’s fins.

Common Health Issues

- Fin Rot: Frayed fins, reddening base. Improve water quality and consult an expert.

- Fungus: White cottony growth or discolored eyes. Quarantine the fish and use antifungal treatment.

- Bacterial Infections: Cloudy eyes, open sores, or reddened skin. Improve water quality and seek treatment.

- Ich: White spots, erratic swimming, rapid respiration. Quarantine and treat with commercial remedies.

FAQs

- How big do silver arowanas get?

 In aquariums, they can grow up to 36 inches.

- What do arowanas eat?

 Floating pellets for surface-feeding fish, as well as live, frozen, or freeze-dried fish, insects, krill, worms, and shrimp.

- Can arowanas live with koi?

 It’s not recommended due to differing temperature requirements and water quality sensitivity.

- What is an arowana?

 Arowanas are prehistoric bony freshwater fish from the Osteoglossidae family.

- How do I set up an arowana tank?

 Provide a long, wide habitat with at least 150 gallons of water, good filtration, and a heater. Include some plants and driftwood for a natural environment.

- How long do arowanas live?

 With proper care, they can live for 10–20+ years.

- Where are arowana fish from?

They're native to South America, Asia, Australia, and Africa.

- How many arowanas can live together?

 While juveniles may coexist, mature arowanas are typically solitary and best kept individually.