Arowana Fish Keeping – Your Ultimate Guide To A Thriving Aquatic

Written ByHoward Parker

Thinking about welcoming an arowana into your home aquarium? You’re not alone! These magnificent fish, often called “aquatic dragons,” captivate enthusiasts with their shimmering scales, graceful movements, and prehistoric charm. However, the idea of arowana fish keeping can feel a little daunting at first.

Many aspiring aquarists worry about the specific needs of these large, predatory fish. Will you provide the right environment? What do they eat? How do you keep them healthy? Don’t worry—you’ve come to the right place! We understand these concerns, and we’re here to promise you that with the right knowledge and dedication, maintaining a stunning arowana aquarium is entirely achievable and incredibly rewarding.

In this comprehensive arowana fish keeping guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know. From setting up the perfect tank to daily care, common challenges, and even sustainable practices, we’ll share our best tips and insights. By the end, you’ll feel confident and inspired to embark on your own journey with these incredible creatures. Let’s dive in!

The Allure of Arowanas: Why Choose an Aquatic Dragon?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of how to arowana fish keeping, let’s talk about why these fish are so beloved. There are numerous benefits of arowana fish keeping that go beyond just owning a beautiful pet.

Arowanas are truly living jewels. Their elongated bodies, large scales, and distinct barbel whiskers give them an ancient, regal appearance. Watching them glide effortlessly through the water is a mesmerizing experience that can bring a sense of tranquility and wonder to any room.

Beyond their aesthetics, arowanas possess remarkable personalities. They can be incredibly interactive, often recognizing their owners and even taking food directly from their hands. This unique bond is a significant part of their appeal. Many cultures also associate arowanas with good fortune, prosperity, and strength, adding to their mystique.

Choosing an arowana means committing to a long-term, engaging hobby. They are intelligent, captivating, and with proper care, can live for 10-20 years, becoming a true centerpiece of your home.

Essential Arowana Fish Keeping Setup: Building Their Kingdom

The foundation of successful arowana fish keeping lies in creating an ideal environment. These fish grow large and need ample space to thrive. Think big, and then think a little bigger!

Tank Size: Go Big or Go Home

This is arguably the most critical aspect of how to arowana fish keeping. Arowanas can reach lengths of 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) or more, depending on the species. A small tank will stunt their growth, stress them out, and lead to health issues.

  • For a single juvenile arowana (under 12 inches), a 75-gallon tank might suffice temporarily, but you’ll need to upgrade quickly.
  • For an adult arowana, a minimum of 180 gallons is recommended, but 250-300 gallons or more is truly ideal.
  • Length is more important than height. Aim for a tank that is at least 6-8 feet long and 2-3 feet wide to allow for comfortable turning and swimming.

Remember, a larger tank provides more stable water parameters, which is crucial for these sensitive fish. Don’t skimp on tank size; it’s an investment in your arowana’s long-term health and happiness.

Filtration Systems: Crystal Clear Waters are Key

Arowanas are messy eaters and produce a significant bio-load, making robust filtration essential. You’ll need a combination of mechanical, biological, and chemical filtration to maintain pristine water quality.

  • Canister Filters: Multiple large canister filters are often the backbone of an arowana setup. Look for models with high flow rates and multiple media baskets.
  • Sump Systems: For very large tanks, a sump offers unparalleled filtration capacity, allowing for more media, heaters, and protein skimmers (for saltwater arowanas, though most are freshwater).
  • Sponge Filters: While not primary filtration for adults, sponge filters can provide excellent supplemental biological filtration and aeration, especially in breeding tanks or for juveniles.

Aim for a total filtration turnover rate of at least 10 times the tank volume per hour. Regular maintenance of your filters is part of arowana fish keeping best practices to prevent nitrates from building up.

Heating and Lighting: Mimicking Their Natural Habitat

Arowanas are tropical fish and require stable, warm water temperatures.

  • Temperature: Maintain a consistent temperature between 75-82°F (24-28°C). Use reliable, submersible heaters with protective guards to prevent your arowana from burning itself. It’s wise to use two smaller heaters rather than one large one for redundancy.
  • Lighting: While arowanas don’t have specific lighting requirements beyond what’s needed for viewing and perhaps live plants (if you choose them), good quality LED lighting can enhance their colors. A standard day/night cycle (10-12 hours on, 12-14 hours off) is appropriate. Avoid overly bright or intense lighting, which can stress them.

A tightly fitting lid is non-negotiable! Arowanas are incredible jumpers, especially when startled or hunting. Any gap is an escape route. Use heavy-duty clamps or weights to secure your lid.

Substrate and Decor: Safety First!

When selecting substrate and decor, prioritize safety and ease of cleaning.

  • Substrate: A fine sand substrate is generally preferred as it’s easy to clean and won’t scratch your arowana’s delicate barbels. Avoid sharp gravel. Some aquarists opt for a bare bottom tank to simplify maintenance.
  • Decor: Keep decor minimal but functional. Large, smooth rocks or driftwood pieces can provide hiding spots and visual interest. Ensure all decor is smooth, heavy, and securely placed to prevent it from falling and injuring your fish. Leave plenty of open swimming space.

Remember, your arowana will grow large and powerful. Any decor needs to withstand its movements without posing a risk.

Arowana Fish Keeping Care Guide: Daily Routines for Success

Once your tank is set up, the real joy of arowana fish keeping begins with consistent daily care. This section covers the core elements of the arowana fish keeping care guide.

Feeding Your Arowana: A Balanced Diet for a Predator

Arowanas are carnivores and require a varied, protein-rich diet. Their diet should mimic what they would eat in the wild.

  • Staple Foods: High-quality arowana pellets or sticks can form the base of their diet. Look for brands specifically formulated for large predatory fish.
  • Live Foods (with caution): Crickets, mealworms, superworms, and feeder fish (guppies, mollies) can be offered. However, be cautious with feeder fish, as they can introduce diseases or parasites. Quarantining feeder fish is a must.
  • Frozen Foods: Mysis shrimp, krill, bloodworms, and silversides are excellent options. Thaw them thoroughly before feeding.
  • Occasional Treats: Small pieces of lean fish (tilapia, salmon), shrimp, or even chicken heart can be given sparingly.

Feed juveniles 2-3 times a day, small portions they can consume in a few minutes. Adults can be fed once a day or every other day. Avoid overfeeding, which can lead to digestive issues and poor water quality. Always remove uneaten food promptly.

Water Quality Management: The Heart of Arowana Health

Pristine water quality is non-negotiable for arowanas. They are sensitive to ammonia, nitrite, and high nitrates.

  • Water Changes: Perform regular, large water changes. For a well-stocked arowana tank, 25-50% weekly water changes are often necessary. Use a good quality water conditioner to neutralize chlorine and chloramines.
  • Testing: Routinely test your water parameters.
    • Ammonia: 0 ppm
    • Nitrite: 0 ppm
    • Nitrate: below 20 ppm (ideally below 10 ppm)
    • pH: Generally 6.5-7.5 (species-dependent, but stability is key)
  • Aeration: Ensure good surface agitation and aeration. Airstones or spray bars from your filter outlets can help keep oxygen levels high.

Consistent water quality is one of the most vital arowana fish keeping tips you’ll ever receive. It prevents stress, disease, and promotes vibrant health.

Tank Mates: Choosing Wisely

Arowanas are predatory and territorial. Choosing tank mates requires careful consideration to avoid conflict, injury, or your tank mates becoming dinner.

  • Avoid: Small fish, aggressive fish, and fin-nippers. Anything that fits in an arowana’s mouth is fair game.
  • Good Options (with caution): Large, fast-moving, peaceful fish that occupy different water columns. Examples include large plecos (like common or sailfin plecos), datnoids, large schooling tetras (like silver dollars), large gouramis, or even other large cichlids (if the tank is enormous and you’re experienced).
  • Size Difference: Ensure tank mates are significantly larger than what your arowana can swallow, and similar in size to prevent bullying.

Always introduce tank mates with caution and observe interactions closely. Be prepared to separate if aggression occurs.

Common Problems with Arowana Fish Keeping & Solutions

Even with the best intentions, you might encounter some challenges. Being prepared for common problems with arowana fish keeping can help you address them quickly and effectively.

Droop Eye: Prevention and Management

Droop eye (also known as “DE”) is a common cosmetic condition where one or both of an arowana’s eyes begin to point downwards. While not life-threatening, it can detract from their appearance.

  • Causes: Often attributed to high-fat diets, lack of vertical space (causing them to constantly look down for food), or even genetics.
  • Prevention:
    • Feed a varied, balanced diet, reducing fatty foods.
    • Ensure ample swimming space and water depth.
    • Some aquarists use a dark bottom tank or float a ping-pong ball to encourage them to look up.
  • Management: Once established, it’s difficult to reverse. Surgical options exist but are risky and best left to highly experienced vets. Focus on prevention!

Fin Rot and Other Diseases: Early Detection is Crucial

Like all fish, arowanas can suffer from diseases, often brought on by poor water quality, stress, or new introductions.

  • Fin Rot: Ragged, deteriorating fins are a sign. Treat with clean water, aquarium salt, and appropriate antibiotics if bacterial.
  • Ich (White Spot Disease): Small white spots on the body and fins. Treat with increased temperature (if suitable for your species), aquarium salt, and commercial ich medications.
  • Fungal Infections: Cotton-like growths. Often secondary to bacterial infections or injury. Treat with antifungal medications.

The best defense is a good offense: maintain excellent water quality, provide a stress-free environment, and quarantine all new fish or plants. Watch your arowana closely for any changes in behavior, appetite, or appearance—early detection is key to successful treatment.

Jumping: Arowanas Are Leapers!

Arowanas are natural hunters and incredibly powerful jumpers. In the wild, they leap out of the water to catch insects and small animals.

  • Problem: An unsecured lid can lead to your arowana leaping out of the tank, resulting in serious injury or death.
  • Solution: Invest in a heavy, tightly fitting lid. Use clips or weights to secure it firmly. Check for any small gaps around filters or heaters that an arowana could exploit.

This isn’t just one of the arowana fish keeping tips; it’s a critical safety measure for your fish!

Sustainable Arowana Fish Keeping: Being a Responsible Aquarist

As enthusiasts, it’s our responsibility to engage in sustainable arowana fish keeping. Many arowana species are endangered or protected in their native habitats due to overcollection and habitat loss.

  • Source Responsibly: Always purchase arowanas from reputable dealers who can confirm their fish are captive-bred or ethically sourced. Avoid buying wild-caught fish unless you are certain of their legal and sustainable origins.
  • Understand CITES: Some arowana species (like the Asian Arowana, Scleropages formosus) are listed under CITES Appendix I, meaning international trade is highly restricted and requires special permits. Be aware of the legal status of the species you are interested in.
  • Support Conservation: Look for opportunities to support organizations involved in arowana conservation efforts.
  • Long-Term Commitment: Arowanas live for many years. Ensure you are prepared for the long-term commitment, preventing the need for rehoming or releasing them into non-native environments, which can be disastrous for local ecosystems. This also aligns with eco-friendly arowana fish keeping principles.

By making conscious choices, you contribute to the preservation of these magnificent creatures in the wild and promote responsible pet ownership.

Advanced Arowana Fish Keeping Tips for the Dedicated Hobbyist

For those looking to take their arowana fish keeping to the next level, here are a few advanced insights and arowana fish keeping best practices.

  • Species-Specific Care: While this guide covers general care, remember that different arowana species (Silver, Asian, Jardini, Black, Australian, African) have unique nuances in temperament, ultimate size, and water parameter preferences. Research your specific species thoroughly.
  • Training and Interaction: Arowanas can be trained to eat from your hand or even follow your finger. Spend time observing and interacting with your fish to build a bond.
  • Breeding Challenges: Arowana breeding is highly specialized and generally requires very large tanks, specific environmental conditions, and often, parental mouthbrooding. It’s a challenging endeavor usually reserved for experienced breeders.
  • Power Outages: Have a plan for power outages. A battery-operated air pump can save your fish during extended blackouts, especially in heavily stocked tanks.
  • Observation is Key: Regularly observe your arowana’s behavior, swimming patterns, and appetite. Subtle changes can be early indicators of stress or illness, allowing you to intervene before problems escalate.

These deeper insights will help you become a truly exceptional arowana keeper, ensuring your aquatic dragon thrives for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions About Arowana Fish Keeping

What is the minimum tank size for an adult arowana?

For an adult arowana, a minimum of 180 gallons (approximately 680 liters) is recommended, but 250-300 gallons or more is ideal. The tank should be at least 6-8 feet long to allow for proper swimming and turning.

How often should I feed my arowana?

Juvenile arowanas (under 12 inches) should be fed 2-3 times a day, while adult arowanas can be fed once a day or every other day. Always offer small portions they can consume quickly and remove any uneaten food.

Can arowanas live with other fish?

Yes, but with caution. Arowanas are predatory. Choose large, fast-moving, peaceful tank mates that won’t fit in the arowana’s mouth and occupy different areas of the tank. Examples include large plecos, datnoids, or silver dollars. Always monitor interactions closely.

What causes droop eye in arowanas?

Droop eye is often linked to a high-fat diet, a lack of vertical stimulation (causing the fish to constantly look down), or genetics. To prevent it, offer a varied, low-fat diet, ensure ample tank depth, and consider using a dark substrate or floating objects to encourage upward gazing.

Are arowanas good for beginners?

While arowanas require a significant commitment in terms of tank size, filtration, and consistent care, an enthusiastic beginner with a willingness to learn and invest in proper equipment can certainly succeed. They are not overly delicate if their core needs (space, water quality, diet) are met. Think of it as an exciting, rewarding challenge!

Conclusion

Embarking on the journey of arowana fish keeping is an incredibly rewarding experience. These magnificent “aquatic dragons” bring unparalleled beauty and personality to any aquarium, becoming a true focal point of admiration. While they demand dedication and a commitment to providing the right environment, the joy of watching a healthy, thriving arowana is immeasurable.

Remember the core principles: ample tank space, powerful filtration, pristine water quality, and a balanced diet. By adhering to these arowana fish keeping best practices, you’ll overcome common challenges and foster a robust, vibrant ecosystem for your fish. Don’t be intimidated by their size or reputation; with the insights from this guide, you are well-equipped to provide the best possible home for your new companion.

Your journey into the world of arowanas is a testament to your passion for the aquatic hobby. So, take these tips, apply them diligently, and prepare to be amazed by the splendor of your very own aquatic dragon. Go forth and create a truly breathtaking arowana aquarium!

Howard Parker
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