Arowana Fish With Shark – The Ultimate Guide To A Majestic Community

Written ByHoward Parker

Ever dreamed of an aquarium that truly stands out, a living masterpiece showcasing some of the most impressive freshwater fish? Many aquarists, like you, are captivated by the idea of combining the regal presence of an arowana with the sleek, dynamic movement of “shark-like” companions. It’s a vision of grandeur, a vibrant ecosystem brimming with life and motion.

However, the thought of housing such powerful and large fish together can feel a bit daunting. You might be wondering about tank size, compatibility, or how to ensure everyone gets along. Don’t worry—you’re not alone in these questions, and you’ve come to the right place! We understand the challenges and the immense satisfaction that comes with a perfectly balanced community tank.

At Aquifarm, we’re here to guide you through creating this awe-inspiring setup. This comprehensive guide will unlock the secrets to successfully keeping an arowana fish with shark companions, transforming your dream into a thriving reality. We’ll cover everything from species selection and tank setup to feeding best practices and common problem-solving, ensuring you have all the knowledge to create a harmonious and breathtaking display. Get ready to dive deep and master the art of this magnificent aquatic pairing!

Understanding Your Stars: Arowanas and Their “Shark” Companions

Before we jump into the nitty-gritty of tank setup, it’s crucial to understand the stars of our show. When we talk about keeping an arowana fish with shark, it’s important to clarify what kind of “shark” we’re referring to. For most home aquarists, this typically means species that look like sharks but are, in fact, entirely different types of fish. True freshwater sharks, such as bull sharks or certain rays, have incredibly specialized and demanding needs far beyond the scope of a typical home aquarium.

The Regal Arowana: A Brief Overview

Arowanas are truly magnificent creatures, often called “dragon fish” due to their large, metallic scales and imposing presence. They are ancient fish, known for their predatory nature and incredible jumping ability. There are several species, but the most common in the aquarium trade include Silver Arowanas (Osteoglossum bicirrhosum), Asian Arowanas (various Scleropages species), and Australian Arowanas (Scleropages jardinii and Scleropages leichardti).

These fish can grow very large—Silver Arowanas can easily reach 3 feet in length, while Asian Arowanas typically grow to 2-2.5 feet. Their diet consists primarily of meaty foods, and they require pristine water conditions to thrive. They are intelligent, can recognize their owners, and become quite personable. Understanding their needs is the first step in any good arowana fish with shark guide.

“Sharks” for Your Aquarium: The Right Choices

When you envision an arowana fish with shark, you’re most likely thinking of one of these popular, shark-like species:

  • Bala Shark (Balantiocheilos melanopterus): Also known as the Tri-color Shark or Silver Shark, this is by far the most common “shark” companion. Balas are peaceful, schooling fish with a sleek, silver body and black-edged fins. They can grow up to 14 inches, sometimes larger, and are active swimmers.
  • Iridescent Shark (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus): This fish truly resembles a shark, but it’s actually a type of catfish. Iridescent sharks are often sold as small juveniles, but they grow to an enormous size—up to 4 feet in captivity, and even larger in the wild! They are fast-growing and require immense tanks.
  • Columbian Shark (Arius seemani): These are brackish water catfish that resemble small sharks. While they can tolerate freshwater for a time, they ultimately need brackish or saltwater to thrive long-term. Their specific needs make them less suitable for a typical freshwater arowana tank.

For the purpose of this guide, we’ll primarily focus on the Bala Shark as the most practical and compatible “shark” species for a community tank with an arowana. Its temperament and size make it a much more manageable choice than the gargantuan Iridescent Shark or the brackish Columbian Shark.

Compatibility is Key: Making Your Arowana Fish with Shark Tank Thrive

The success of housing an arowana fish with shark companions hinges entirely on careful planning and understanding fish behavior. It’s not just about putting fish in a tank; it’s about creating a harmonious environment where all inhabitants can thrive without undue stress or aggression. Here are some essential arowana fish with shark tips for ensuring compatibility.

Temperament and Size Matching

Arowanas are predatory fish. Anything small enough to fit in their mouth is fair game. This is why selecting appropriate tank mates, especially “sharks,” is paramount. Bala Sharks are generally peaceful, but their active swimming can sometimes stress slower, more timid fish. Fortunately, arowanas are robust and can handle the activity.

The key rule: choose “shark” companions that are too large to be considered a meal by your arowana. Ideally, introduce your Bala Sharks when they are already a good size, perhaps 4-6 inches, and your arowana is still relatively young. If you introduce small Balas to a large arowana, they will likely become expensive snacks. It’s also crucial to keep Bala Sharks in schools of at least 5-7 individuals to reduce stress and aggression amongst themselves, allowing them to feel more secure.

Avoiding Aggression and Stress

Even with compatible species, aggression can sometimes flare up. Here’s how to minimize it:

  • Introduce Fish Simultaneously (If Possible): If you’re starting a new tank, adding the arowana and its Bala Shark companions at roughly the same time, or introducing the arowana after the Balas have settled, can help prevent territorial disputes.
  • Provide Ample Space: Overcrowding is a leading cause of aggression. Ensure your tank is generously sized (more on this below).
  • Break Up Lines of Sight: Strategic aquascaping with driftwood and large, smooth rocks can create visual barriers, allowing fish to establish their own territories or retreat when needed.
  • Monitor Closely: Especially in the first few weeks, observe your fish for signs of stress or aggression, such as fin nipping, hiding, or chasing. Be prepared to intervene or even rehome fish if compatibility issues persist.

By carefully considering temperament and size, and implementing these strategies, you’ll be well on your way to a successful how to arowana fish with shark community.

Setting Up for Success: Tank Requirements and Environment

Housing large, active fish like arowanas and Bala Sharks requires a substantial commitment in terms of tank size and equipment. This is where arowana fish with shark best practices truly come into play, ensuring a healthy, stable environment for years to come.

The Grand Stage: Tank Size Matters

This cannot be stressed enough: these fish get BIG. A young arowana might look cute in a 55-gallon tank, but it will quickly outgrow it. A fully grown Silver Arowana needs at least a 250-gallon tank, with 300-400 gallons being even better, especially if you plan on keeping it with a school of Bala Sharks. For Asian Arowanas, which are often slightly smaller but still very large, a 180-gallon tank is a bare minimum, with 240+ gallons highly recommended.

When considering tank dimensions, length and width are more important than height. Arowanas are surface dwellers and need ample swimming space horizontally. A tank that is at least 8 feet long and 2-3 feet wide is ideal. Remember, Bala Sharks also need plenty of room to school and swim actively.

Filtration, Heating, and Lighting

Powerful filtration is non-negotiable for a tank with an arowana fish with shark. These are messy eaters and produce a significant bio-load. You’ll need multiple robust filters, ideally a combination of canister filters and a large sump system. Aim for a total filtration capacity that turns over the tank’s volume at least 5-10 times per hour.

  • Mechanical Filtration: Removes physical debris, keeping the water clear.
  • Biological Filtration: Converts harmful ammonia and nitrites into less toxic nitrates. This is the backbone of your filtration.
  • Chemical Filtration: Activated carbon or other media can remove odors, discolorations, and certain toxins.

Heating: Both arowanas and Bala Sharks are tropical fish and require stable water temperatures between 75-82°F (24-28°C). Use multiple heaters, strategically placed, to ensure even heating and provide a backup in case one fails. A heater guard is also a good idea to prevent accidental burns to your fish.

Lighting: Arowanas don’t have extremely specific lighting requirements, but moderate lighting that mimics natural daylight cycles is best. LED lights are energy-efficient and can enhance the metallic sheen of your arowana. Ensure the light isn’t too harsh, as arowanas can be sensitive to very bright conditions. A secure, heavy lid is also absolutely essential to prevent arowanas from jumping out of the tank.

Aquascaping for Harmony and Safety

The ideal aquascape for an arowana fish with shark community focuses on open swimming space with strategic hiding spots. Arowanas are top-level swimmers, while Bala Sharks occupy the mid-water column.

  • Substrate: A fine to medium-grade sand or smooth gravel is suitable. Avoid sharp substrates that could injure fish.
  • Decor: Use large, smooth river rocks and substantial pieces of driftwood. Arrange them to create caves and crevices that fish can retreat into, but ensure they don’t impede swimming lanes. Avoid anything with sharp edges.
  • Plants: Live plants can be challenging with large, active fish. If you choose to use them, opt for robust, hardy species like Anubias, Java Fern, or larger Amazon Swords, anchored securely to driftwood or rocks. Artificial plants are also an option, but ensure they are fish-safe and durable.

Remember, less is often more when aquascaping for large fish. The primary goal is to provide enough open water for swimming and adequate cover to minimize stress and aggression. This forms a critical part of your arowana fish with shark care guide.

Feeding Your Giants: Nutrition for Arowana Fish with Shark

Proper nutrition is fundamental for the long-term health and vibrant coloration of your arowana and its “shark” companions. A varied and high-quality diet will ensure they grow strong and stay healthy. This section covers vital sustainable arowana fish with shark feeding practices.

Dietary Needs of Arowanas

Arowanas are primarily carnivorous and predatory. Their diet should be rich in protein. Here’s what to offer:

  • High-Quality Pellets/Sticks: Specially formulated arowana pellets or large carnivore sticks can form the base of their diet. Look for brands with high protein content.
  • Live/Frozen Foods: Supplement with a variety of live or frozen foods. Good options include krill, large bloodworms, market shrimp, earthworms, crickets, and occasionally feeder fish (though be cautious about diseases from feeder fish; quarantine is essential).
  • Avoid Overfeeding: Feed your arowana 1-2 times a day, only what they can consume in a few minutes. Overfeeding can lead to digestive issues and poor water quality.

Feeding Your “Sharks”

Bala Sharks are omnivores, but lean more towards a carnivorous diet in the wild. In the aquarium, they are generally not picky eaters.

  • High-Quality Flakes/Pellets: A good quality staple flake or pellet food designed for omnivores or larger tropical fish is suitable.
  • Frozen Foods: Supplement with frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.
  • Vegetable Matter: Offer blanched vegetables like zucchini or cucumber occasionally.

Preventing Overfeeding and Competition

When you have large, active fish like an arowana fish with shark, competition for food can occur. Ensure all fish are getting enough to eat without overfeeding the tank as a whole.

  • Observe Feeding: Watch how your fish eat. If one fish is consistently missing out, adjust your feeding strategy.
  • Multiple Feeding Spots: Distribute food across the tank to allow all fish access.
  • Balanced Portions: Provide enough food to satisfy their hunger but not so much that it fouls the water. Uneaten food quickly degrades water quality.

Responsible feeding is a cornerstone of an eco-friendly arowana fish with shark setup, minimizing waste and maintaining a healthy environment.

Maintaining a Healthy Ecosystem: Water Quality and Disease Prevention

Maintaining impeccable water quality is arguably the most critical aspect of keeping an arowana fish with shark community. Large fish produce a lot of waste, and poor water conditions are the primary cause of stress and disease. Let’s delve into essential aspects of their long-term care.

The Importance of Pristine Water

Regular water changes are non-negotiable. Aim for 25-30% water changes weekly, or even more frequently for very large tanks or if your fish are particularly messy. Always use a good quality water conditioner to neutralize chlorine and chloramines.

Water Parameters:

  • Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
  • pH: 6.0-7.5 (Arowanas prefer slightly acidic to neutral, Bala Sharks are adaptable)
  • Ammonia, Nitrite: 0 ppm (parts per million)
  • Nitrate: Below 20 ppm (lower is better)

Invest in reliable liquid test kits and test your water parameters regularly. Consistency is key. A stable environment prevents many common problems with arowana fish with shark setups.

Common Health Issues and How to Avoid Them

Even with the best care, fish can sometimes get sick. Here’s a look at common issues and preventative measures:

  • Fin Rot: Often caused by poor water quality or stress. Prevent with regular water changes and a clean environment. Treat with antibiotics or antifungal medications.
  • Ich (White Spot Disease): A common parasitic infection. Usually appears as small white spots on the body and fins. Prevent by avoiding sudden temperature fluctuations and quarantining new fish. Treat with heat and/or anti-parasitic medications.
  • Dropsy: A symptom of internal bacterial infection, often indicated by a swollen body and protruding scales. Often difficult to treat successfully, but good water quality and diet can help prevent it.
  • “Droopy Eye” (Arowanas): A common condition in arowanas where one or both eyes point downwards. Often attributed to a diet too heavy in floating foods, causing the fish to constantly look down, or genetic factors. Providing sinking foods and a stimulating environment may help, but it’s often irreversible.

Prevention is always better than cure. A strong quarantine protocol for all new fish, a balanced diet, and pristine water are your best defenses.

Long-Term Care for Your Majestic Companions

As your fish grow, their needs will evolve. Continue to monitor their size, behavior, and the tank’s capacity. Be prepared to upgrade equipment or even tanks if necessary. This commitment is part of the joy of keeping such magnificent creatures. Regular maintenance, attentive observation, and proactive problem-solving are hallmarks of excellent arowana fish with shark care guide practices.

Benefits of a Well-Maintained Arowana Fish with Shark Aquarium

Beyond the initial setup and ongoing care, the rewards of a thriving arowana fish with shark aquarium are immense. It’s not just a tank; it’s a dynamic, living art piece that brings a unique atmosphere to any space.

A Stunning Display

There’s no denying the visual impact. An arowana, with its ancient, dragon-like appearance and shimmering scales, is a showstopper on its own. Add a school of active, silver Bala Sharks gracefully gliding through the mid-water, and you have a truly mesmerizing display. The contrast in their forms and movements creates an engaging focal point that captures attention and sparks conversation. This is one of the most obvious benefits of arowana fish with shark pairings.

Educational Value

Keeping a large community tank like this offers incredible educational opportunities. You’ll learn about fish behavior, ecology, water chemistry, and the delicate balance required to maintain a complex ecosystem. It’s a hands-on lesson in responsibility, biology, and patience, valuable for both seasoned aquarists and budding enthusiasts alike.

Personal Fulfillment

There’s a deep sense of accomplishment and tranquility that comes from successfully maintaining a beautiful, healthy aquarium. Watching your fish thrive, observing their unique personalities, and knowing you’ve provided them with an optimal environment is incredibly rewarding. It’s a peaceful escape, a living piece of nature that calms the mind and inspires wonder.

Frequently Asked Questions About Arowana Fish with Shark

Here are some common questions we hear about keeping an arowana fish with shark community tank.

Can I keep multiple arowanas with sharks?

Keeping multiple arowanas, especially Silver or Asian Arowanas, together is highly challenging due to their territorial and aggressive nature, particularly as they mature. It typically requires an extremely large tank (hundreds of gallons per fish) and very careful species selection, often only successful with specific Asian Arowana variants or when grown up together from a very young age in an oversized environment. For most aquarists, it’s best to stick to one arowana per tank, even with compatible “shark” companions.

What’s the minimum tank size for an arowana and a few Bala sharks?

For a single adult Silver Arowana and a school of 5-7 adult Bala Sharks, a minimum tank size of 250-300 gallons (approximately 8-10 feet long, 2-3 feet wide) is recommended. Anything smaller will lead to stunted growth, stress, and potential aggression, significantly reducing the lifespan and quality of life for your fish.

How often should I feed them?

Arowanas should be fed once or twice a day, offering only what they can consume in 2-3 minutes. Bala Sharks can also be fed once or twice daily. It’s crucial not to overfeed, as this pollutes the water and can lead to health issues for your fish. A varied diet is more important than frequent feeding.

Are there any alternatives to Bala sharks if I want a “shark” look?

If Bala Sharks aren’t quite what you’re looking for, other “shark-like” fish exist, but most come with significant caveats. The Iridescent Shark (Pangasius catfish) grows to immense sizes (4+ feet) and is rarely suitable for even the largest home aquariums. Rainbow Sharks and Red Tail Black Sharks are smaller but can be highly territorial and aggressive, often not suitable for large, peaceful community tanks with an arowana. For a peaceful, active, and appropriately sized “shark” companion, the Bala Shark remains the top recommendation.

How long do arowanas and Bala sharks live?

With proper care, arowanas can live for 15-20 years, and some even longer! Bala Sharks typically live for 8-10 years, though some have been known to reach 12-15 years. Their longevity is a testament to the commitment required to keep these magnificent fish and highlights the importance of excellent long-term care.

Conclusion

Embarking on the journey of keeping an arowana fish with shark companions is a commitment, but one that promises unparalleled rewards. By choosing the right species, providing an appropriately massive tank, maintaining impeccable water quality, and offering a balanced diet, you’re not just creating an aquarium; you’re cultivating a vibrant, living ecosystem that will be the envy of all who behold it.

Remember, patience and consistent care are your greatest allies. Every water change, every careful observation, and every thoughtful feeding contributes to the health and happiness of your majestic fish. This isn’t just a hobby; it’s a passion that connects you to the wonders of the aquatic world.

We hope this comprehensive guide has empowered you with the knowledge and confidence to create your dream arowana fish with shark community tank. At Aquifarm, we believe every aquarist can achieve greatness. Go forth, plan meticulously, and enjoy the incredible beauty and tranquility that your magnificent aquarium will bring!

Howard Parker
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