What Is Arowana Fish – Your Ultimate Guide To Care, Compatibility

Written ByHoward Parker

Hey there, fellow aquarist! Have you ever stood mesmerized in front of an aquarium, captivated by a fish that looks like a living jewel, shimmering with an ancient grace? Chances are, you were admiring an Arowana. These magnificent creatures, often called “dragon fish” due to their large, metallic scales and barbels, hold a special place in the hearts of many fish keepers.

You might be thinking, “They look incredible, but aren’t they incredibly difficult to care for?” It’s a common misconception! While Arowanas do have specific needs, understanding them is the first step to a truly rewarding experience. Don’t worry—you don’t need to be a seasoned expert to keep one thriving.

In this comprehensive guide, we’re going to dive deep into what is Arowana fish, demystifying everything from their fascinating biology to the practical steps of keeping them healthy and happy. We’ll cover essential setup, feeding, common problems, and even how to keep them in an eco-friendly way. By the end, you’ll have all the knowledge you need to confidently embark on your Arowana journey, ensuring your aquatic dragon flourishes.

Understanding What is Arowana Fish: A Majestic Overview

So, what is Arowana fish, exactly? Arowanas are a group of freshwater bony fish belonging to the family Osteoglossidae. They are ancient fish, often referred to as “living fossils,” with a lineage stretching back millions of years. Their sleek, elongated bodies, large scales, and prominent barbels give them a truly prehistoric and majestic appearance. These fish are native to various tropical regions around the globe, including South America, Southeast Asia, and Australia, with different species found in each area.

Their natural habitats are typically slow-moving rivers, swamps, and floodplains, where they are top-level predators. This predatory nature and impressive size mean they command respect in any aquarium. Many cultures also revere Arowanas, particularly the Asian Arowana, as symbols of luck, prosperity, and power, which adds to their mystique and desirability.

The Allure of the Arowana: Why Choose This Magnificent Fish?

Beyond their stunning looks, there are many benefits of what is Arowana fish keeping that draw enthusiasts in. They are more than just pretty faces; they possess a unique charm and intelligence that makes them truly captivating pets.

  • Striking Appearance: Their iridescent scales shimmer with a metallic sheen, ranging from silver to gold, red, and even green depending on the species. They are truly living works of art.
  • Impressive Size: Arowanas grow large, often reaching 2-3 feet in captivity. This makes them a dominant and awe-inspiring centerpiece in a suitably sized aquarium.
  • Engaging Personalities: Unlike some fish that hide away, Arowanas are active swimmers and can even learn to recognize their keepers. Many aquarists report their Arowanas responding to their presence and even taking food directly from their hands.
  • Longevity: With proper care, Arowanas can live for 10-20 years, becoming long-term companions and a true testament to your dedication as an aquarist.

Embarking on the journey of keeping an Arowana is about bringing a piece of living history and breathtaking beauty into your home. It’s a commitment, but one that rewards you with years of enjoyment.

Setting Up for Success: Your Arowana Fish Care Guide

Once you understand the basics of what is Arowana fish, the next crucial step is preparing their home. Proper tank setup is paramount for their health and longevity. Think big, think stable, and think clean!

Essential Equipment and Water Chemistry for Thriving Arowanas

When considering how to what is arowana fish successfully, the tank itself is your first and most important investment. These fish grow *very* large, and quickly.

  • Tank Size: For a single Silver Arowana, a minimum of 180 gallons (680 liters) is recommended, but 250-300 gallons (950-1135 liters) is far better as they mature. Asian Arowanas also require similar large volumes. The length and width are more important than height, as they are surface dwellers and need ample swimming space. A tank that is at least 6-8 feet long and 2-3 feet wide is ideal for an adult.
  • Lid: Arowanas are notorious jumpers. A heavy, secure, and tightly fitting lid is absolutely non-negotiable to prevent them from leaping out.
  • Filtration: Excellent filtration is critical. Arowanas are messy eaters and produce a lot of waste. You’ll need multiple powerful external filters (canisters or sumps) that provide both mechanical and biological filtration. Aim for a filtration capacity that turns over the tank’s water volume at least 5-10 times per hour.
  • Heater: Arowanas are tropical fish and require stable water temperatures. Maintain a temperature range of 75-82°F (24-28°C). Use multiple heaters to ensure consistent temperature and as a backup in case one fails.
  • Substrate: A fine gravel or sand substrate is suitable. Keep it relatively thin to make cleaning easier. Arowanas don’t spend much time at the bottom, so elaborate substrate isn’t necessary.
  • Decorations: Provide some open swimming space. You can add smooth rocks or driftwood, ensuring they are securely placed and don’t have sharp edges that could injure your fish. Plants, if used, should be robust and securely anchored, or choose artificial ones.

Beyond equipment, maintaining pristine water quality is a cornerstone of what is arowana fish best practices. Regular monitoring and maintenance are key.

  • Water Parameters:
    • pH: 6.0-7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
    • Hardness: Soft to medium (dH 5-15)
    • Ammonia, Nitrite: 0 ppm
    • Nitrate: Below 20 ppm (ideally below 10 ppm)
  • Water Changes: Perform large, regular water changes—at least 25-30% weekly, sometimes more depending on your bioload. Always use a good quality water conditioner to neutralize chlorine and chloramines.
  • Water Testing: Invest in a reliable liquid test kit to monitor your water parameters weekly. This helps you catch potential issues before they become serious.

This comprehensive what is arowana fish guide to tank setup ensures your majestic pet has a comfortable and healthy environment right from the start.

Feeding Your Arowana: Nutrition Best Practices

Arowanas are carnivores, pure and simple. In the wild, they are opportunistic predators, feasting on insects, smaller fish, and even small terrestrial animals that fall into the water. Replicating this diet in captivity is crucial for their growth, color, and overall health. When thinking about what is arowana fish tips for feeding, variety is the spice of life!

Balancing Diet and Health for Optimal Growth

Providing a balanced and varied diet is one of the most important what is arowana fish best practices. Avoid feeding just one type of food.

  • High-Quality Pellets: Start with a good quality Arowana-specific pellet or stick food. These are formulated to provide essential nutrients and should form the base of their diet. Look for brands with high protein content and natural ingredients.
  • Frozen Foods: Supplement pellets with frozen foods like krill, silversides, bloodworms (for smaller Arowanas), market shrimp, and even pieces of white fish (tilapia, cod). Thaw frozen foods completely before feeding.
  • Live Foods (with caution): While Arowanas love live food, it comes with risks. Feeder fish can introduce diseases and parasites into your tank. If you do feed live fish, consider breeding your own or quarantining them for several weeks beforehand. Insects like crickets, grasshoppers, and mealworms can be good, safe live treats. Always ensure they haven’t been exposed to pesticides.
  • Avoid Fatty Foods: Do not feed mammalian meat (like beef heart) or excessive amounts of high-fat fish. This can lead to health issues like fatty liver disease and “drop eye” syndrome.

Feeding Frequency:
Young Arowanas (under 10 inches) should be fed 2-3 times a day. As they grow larger, reduce feeding to once a day or even every other day for very large adults. Always feed only what they can consume within 2-3 minutes to avoid overfeeding and polluting the water.

Observing your Arowana during feeding is key. A healthy Arowana will be eager and active. If they refuse food or seem lethargic, it could be an indicator of stress or illness.

Common Challenges and Troubleshooting for Arowana Keepers

Even with the best intentions and meticulous care, common problems with what is Arowana fish can arise. Being prepared and knowing how to respond is a hallmark of an experienced aquarist.

Proactive Steps to Maintain a Healthy Arowana

Here are some of the most common issues and how to tackle them:

  • Drop Eye: This is a condition where one or both eyes appear to be looking downwards. While its exact cause is debated, it’s often attributed to Arowanas constantly looking down for food (especially if fed a diet that sinks) or reflections from the tank bottom.
    • Prevention: Feed floating foods predominantly. Use a dark substrate or cover the bottom with a dark background to reduce reflections. Some aquarists float a ping-pong ball on the surface to give the Arowana something to focus on upwards.
  • Fin Rot: Ragged, deteriorating fins are usually a sign of poor water quality or bacterial infection.
    • Treatment: Immediately perform a large water change (50% or more). Improve filtration and increase water change frequency. If it persists, a broad-spectrum antibiotic medication might be necessary, but always try water quality improvements first.
  • Bloat/Constipation: Often caused by overfeeding or a lack of dietary fiber.
    • Treatment: Fast your Arowana for a few days. Offer blanched peas (shell removed) as a laxative. Ensure a varied diet to prevent recurrence.
  • Cloudy Water: Typically indicates a bacterial bloom, often from overfeeding or insufficient filtration.
    • Treatment: Reduce feeding, perform a large water change, and ensure your filters are clean and functioning optimally. Avoid chemical clarifiers, which only mask the problem.
  • Stress: Signs include hiding, loss of appetite, dull coloration, or rubbing against objects. Can be caused by poor water quality, unsuitable tank mates, sudden changes, or inadequate tank size.
    • Treatment: Identify and eliminate the stressor. Check water parameters, ensure tank mates are compatible, and provide a stable environment.

The best defense against these issues is proactive care. Regular water changes, consistent water parameter monitoring, a balanced diet, and a clean, stable environment are your best tools in this what is arowana fish care guide.

Tank Mates and Temperament: Arowana Compatibility Tips

Arowanas are apex predators, and their tank mate compatibility requires careful consideration. While some species can be kept in community tanks, others are best kept alone. This section offers essential what is arowana fish tips for successful cohabitation.

Choosing Wisely: Who Can Live with Your Dragon Fish?

When selecting tank mates, remember these golden rules:

  • Size Matters: Any fish small enough to fit into an Arowana’s mouth *will* be eaten. Tank mates should be at least two-thirds the size of your Arowana, and preferably larger.
  • Speed and Agility: Fast-moving fish can often outmaneuver an Arowana.
  • Temperament: Avoid overly aggressive or fin-nipping species. Arowanas can be territorial, especially as they mature.
  • Water Column: Choose fish that occupy different parts of the water column to avoid direct competition for space.

Good Tank Mate Options:

  • Large Catfish: Plecos (common, green phantom, royal), Clown Loaches (in groups), and large Synodontis species can make good bottom-dwelling companions. Ensure they are robust enough to handle the Arowana’s presence.
  • Large Cichlids: Some larger, more peaceful cichlids like Oscars (if introduced young and together), Green Terrors, or Severums can sometimes work, but monitor carefully for aggression.
  • Datnoids (Tiger Fish): These are often seen with Arowanas as they are robust and occupy a similar mid-water space.
  • Stingrays: For very large aquariums, freshwater stingrays can be compatible, occupying the tank bottom.
  • Other Large Species: Pacu, Silver Dollars, or even other large gouramis can sometimes be suitable.

Fish to Avoid:

  • Small tetras, guppies, mollies, and other small community fish.
  • Aggressive cichlids (e.g., Red Devils, Midas Cichlids) that might injure the Arowana.
  • Slow-moving, long-finned fish that could be nipped.
  • Other Arowanas (unless kept in a very large, species-specific tank with a specific strategy for multiple Arowanas, which is advanced).

Always introduce tank mates carefully and monitor interactions closely. Be prepared to remove any fish that show signs of aggression or stress. An Arowana’s personality can also vary, so what works for one might not work for another.

Sustainable Arowana Keeping: An Eco-Friendly Approach

As responsible aquarists, it’s vital to consider the broader impact of our hobby. This is especially true for Arowanas, some species of which are endangered in the wild. Embracing sustainable what is arowana fish practices helps protect these magnificent creatures for future generations.

Supporting Responsible Arowana Aquaculture

Many species of Arowana, particularly the Asian Arowana (Scleropages formosus), are listed under CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) Appendix I, meaning international trade in wild-caught specimens is prohibited. However, captive-bred and farmed Asian Arowanas are legal to trade under strict regulations, often requiring microchips and certification.

Here’s how you can practice eco-friendly what is arowana fish keeping:

  1. Choose Captive-Bred: Always opt for captive-bred Arowanas from reputable sources. This reduces pressure on wild populations and often results in healthier, more adaptable fish. Ask your dealer for proof of origin and CITES documentation for Asian Arowanas.
  2. Research Your Species: Understand the conservation status of the specific Arowana species you are interested in. Silver Arowanas (Osteoglossum bicirrhosum) are generally more common and less endangered, but responsible sourcing still matters.
  3. Support Ethical Breeders: Look for breeders who prioritize the health and welfare of their fish, maintain excellent breeding conditions, and adhere to all legal requirements.
  4. Minimize Waste: Practice good aquarium hygiene, but also consider eco-friendly choices. Use energy-efficient equipment, minimize water waste during changes (perhaps by using treated tank water for plants), and properly dispose of any expired medications or chemicals.
  5. Educate Others: Share your knowledge about responsible Arowana keeping. Encourage fellow enthusiasts to make sustainable choices and appreciate the importance of conservation.

By making conscious choices about where your Arowana comes from and how you care for it, you contribute to the species’ survival and promote a more ethical aquarium hobby. It’s a powerful way to show your love for these incredible fish.

Frequently Asked Questions About Arowana Fish

How long do Arowana fish live?

With excellent care, Arowana fish can live for 10 to 20 years, and sometimes even longer. Their longevity is a testament to consistent water quality, a balanced diet, and a spacious, stress-free environment.

Can Arowanas be kept in a community tank?

Yes, but with very careful selection of tank mates. Arowanas are predatory and will eat any fish small enough to fit in their mouths. Compatible tank mates must be large, robust, and generally occupy different parts of the water column to minimize aggression and competition.

What is “drop eye” and how can I prevent it?

Drop eye is a condition where an Arowana’s eye permanently points downwards. While not life-threatening, it is aesthetically undesirable. It’s often linked to the fish constantly looking down for food or reflections. To prevent it, feed primarily floating foods, use a dark substrate or tank bottom, and avoid reflections that encourage downward gazing.

How often should I feed my Arowana?

Young Arowanas (under 10 inches) should be fed 2-3 times a day. As they grow larger, reduce feeding to once a day or even every other day for adult fish. Always feed only what they can consume within 2-3 minutes to prevent overfeeding and water pollution.

Are Arowanas aggressive?

Arowanas are predatory and can be territorial, especially towards their own kind or fish that resemble them. They are generally not overtly aggressive towards suitable, large tank mates, but their predatory instinct means any smaller fish is fair game. Individual personalities can vary.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve just taken a deep dive into the fascinating world of Arowana fish. From understanding what is Arowana fish and their captivating allure to mastering their specific care requirements, you’re now equipped with the knowledge to provide a thriving home for these magnificent aquatic dragons.

Remember, successful Arowana keeping hinges on a few core principles: a spacious, meticulously maintained tank, a varied and high-quality diet, careful consideration of tank mates, and a commitment to sustainable practices. It might seem like a lot, but trust us, the rewards of watching these intelligent and majestic creatures flourish are immeasurable.

Don’t be intimidated by their impressive size or reputation. With the practical advice and expert insights shared here, you are well on your way to becoming a confident Arowana keeper. Take the plunge, apply these what is arowana fish tips, and prepare to be captivated by one of the aquarium world’s true treasures. Your journey with these living jewels is just beginning—go forth and grow!

Howard Parker
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