What Is Arowana Fish Called – Your Ultimate Guide To Naming, Care, And
Ever gazed into an aquarium and been captivated by a fish that seems to float with an ancient, regal grace, shimmering like a mythical creature? You’re likely thinking of the Arowana. This magnificent fish, often seen as a living jewel, sparks curiosity and admiration among aquarists worldwide. But beyond its stunning appearance, many wonder: what is Arowana fish called, and what does it take to provide one with a truly thriving home?
You’re not alone in your fascination. The Arowana carries a mystique that makes understanding its identity and care a rewarding journey. If you’ve been pondering adding one of these majestic creatures to your collection, or simply want to learn more, you’ve come to the right place.
At Aquifarm, we understand the allure and the questions that come with keeping such a special fish. We promise to guide you through everything you need to know, from its various names and fascinating origins to the intricate details of its care. By the end of this comprehensive guide, you’ll feel confident and inspired to embark on your Arowana adventure, equipped with the knowledge to make your aquarium a true sanctuary for this “dragon fish.”
Unveiling the Majesty: So, what is Arowana Fish Called?
The Arowana is known by many names, each reflecting its unique appearance, behavior, or cultural significance. The most common and globally recognized moniker, however, is the Dragon Fish. This name perfectly captures its elongated, armored body, large scales, and two prominent barbels that resemble a dragon’s whiskers.
In many Asian cultures, the Arowana is revered as a symbol of luck, wealth, prosperity, and power. Its resemblance to a mythical dragon makes it highly prized, believed to bring good fortune to its owner.
Regional and Species-Specific Names for the Arowana
While “Dragon Fish” is the overarching popular name, different species and regional variants of the Arowana have their own specific identifiers. Understanding these can help you differentiate between the various types available and appreciate the global appeal of this fish.
-
Asian Arowana (Scleropages formosus): This is perhaps the most famous and culturally significant group. Depending on their coloration and origin, they are known by names such as:
- Golden Arowana (e.g., Crossback Golden, Golden Head)
- Red Arowana (e.g., Chili Red, Blood Red, Super Red)
- Green Arowana
- Red Tail Golden
- High Back Golden
These names often highlight their vibrant hues and distinct scale patterns, making them highly sought after.
- Silver Arowana (Osteoglossum bicirrhosum): Native to South America, this species is often simply called the “Silver Arowana” or “South American Arowana.” They are known for their striking metallic silver scales and are one of the larger species.
- Australian Arowana / Saratoga (Scleropages jardinii and Scleropages leichardti): These Australian natives are commonly referred to as “Jardini Arowana,” “Pearl Arowana,” or simply “Saratoga.” They have a distinct speckled appearance on their scales.
- African Arowana (Heterotis niloticus): Though not a true Arowana (it belongs to a different family, Osteoglossidae, but in a different subfamily), it shares a similar elongated body shape and is often called the “African Arowana” due to its superficial resemblance. It’s a filter feeder, unlike its predatory cousins.
The benefits of what is arowana fish called, beyond its aesthetic appeal, often stem from these cultural beliefs. Owning a Dragon Fish is a statement of prestige and a symbol of auspiciousness for many enthusiasts.
Essential Arowana Fish Care: Your Comprehensive Guide to a Thriving Tank
Bringing an Arowana into your home is a significant commitment, and proper care is paramount for its long-term health and vibrancy. This detailed what is arowana fish called guide will cover everything from tank setup to diet, ensuring your Dragon Fish flourishes.
Tank Size & Setup: Giving Your Dragon Room to Roam
Arowanas are large, active fish that require substantial space. This is perhaps the most critical aspect of their care.
- Minimum Tank Size: For adult Silver Arowanas, a tank of 250 gallons (around 950 liters) or more is recommended. Smaller species like the Asian Arowana can start in 125-180 gallon tanks (470-680 liters) but will eventually need larger. Remember, these fish grow quickly!
- Tank Dimensions: Length and width are more important than height. An Arowana needs plenty of swimming room to turn around comfortably. Aim for a tank that is at least 6-8 feet long and 2-3 feet wide for an adult.
- Secure Lid: Arowanas are powerful jumpers. A heavy, tightly fitting lid with no gaps is absolutely non-negotiable. Trust me on this—they will find any escape route.
- Substrate: A fine sand or smooth, rounded gravel substrate is ideal. Avoid sharp edges that could injure their delicate barbels.
- Decor: Keep decor minimal to maximize swimming space. Smooth rocks and driftwood can be used, but ensure they don’t have sharp edges and are securely placed. Avoid cluttering the tank.
- Lighting: Moderate lighting is generally sufficient. Excessive bright light can stress some Arowanas.
Water Parameters: The Lifeblood of Your Arowana
Maintaining pristine and stable water quality is vital. Arowanas are sensitive to fluctuations, so consistent monitoring and maintenance are key.
- Temperature: Keep the water temperature stable between 75-82°F (24-28°C). A reliable heater with a thermostat is essential.
- pH: Most Arowanas thrive in slightly acidic to neutral water, with a pH range of 6.5-7.5. Asian Arowanas often prefer the lower end of this spectrum.
- Hardness: Soft to medium water hardness is generally preferred.
- Filtration: Over-filtration is crucial for Arowanas. These are messy eaters and produce a significant bioload. Employ multiple large external canister filters or, even better, a sump system. This is a core part of how to what is arowana fish called successfully. Ensure strong mechanical, biological, and chemical filtration.
- Water Changes: Regular, large volume water changes are essential. Aim for 25-50% weekly, depending on your filtration and feeding regimen. Always use dechlorinated water matched to the tank’s temperature.
Feeding Your Majestic Hunter: Diet and Nutrition
Arowanas are predatory carnivores with hearty appetites. A varied, high-protein diet is critical for their health and vibrant coloration.
- Juveniles: Start with smaller, nutritious foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and small, high-quality pellets. You can gradually introduce small feeder fish (always quarantined first to prevent disease), ghost shrimp, and crickets.
- Adults: Their diet should consist of a mix of high-quality frozen foods such as krill, prawns, silversides, and larger, specially formulated Arowana pellets. Live insects like crickets, mealworms, and superworms are also excellent treats. Occasional, well-quarantined and gut-loaded feeder fish can be offered, but rely less on them due to potential disease transmission and nutritional imbalances if not prepared properly.
- Feeding Frequency: Juveniles should be fed 2-3 times a day, while adults typically do well with one feeding per day or even every other day. Adjust based on their growth rate and overall condition.
- Avoid Overfeeding: Overfeeding can lead to health issues and rapidly degrade water quality. Feed only what your Arowana can consume in a few minutes.
Tank Mates and Temperament: What is Arowana Fish Called Best Practices for Community?
Arowanas are generally solitary predators. When considering tank mates, extreme caution and careful planning are necessary. They will eat any fish small enough to fit in their mouth.
- Solitary Nature: In most cases, a single Arowana in a species-specific tank is the safest and often the best option.
-
Suitable Companions (with caveats): If you must keep tank mates, choose other large, robust, and semi-aggressive fish that are too big to be eaten and won’t harass your Arowana. Good choices can include:
- Large Plecos (e.g., Common Pleco, Sailfin Pleco)
- Datnoids (Tiger Fish)
- Large Catfish (e.g., Pictus Catfish, some larger Synodontis species)
- Large Cichlids (e.g., Oscar, Green Terror, but monitor aggression carefully)
- Silver Dollars (large schools can sometimes work as dither fish)
Ensure any potential tank mate is significantly larger than your Arowana’s mouth and has a different swimming level to minimize conflict. Introducing tank mates when the Arowana is young can sometimes help, but it’s never a guarantee.
- Fish to Avoid: Absolutely avoid any small fish, fin-nippers, overly aggressive species that could injure your Arowana, or any fish that might compete directly for food in an aggressive manner.
Common Challenges and Troubleshooting: What is Arowana Fish Called Problems to Watch For?
Even with the best intentions, aquarists can encounter challenges. Being aware of common problems with what is Arowana fish called can help you address them quickly and effectively.
Droop Eye (DE): A Common Arowana Concern
Droop eye is a condition where one or both of the Arowana’s eyes appear to sag downwards, giving them a perpetually “looking down” appearance. While usually cosmetic, it can be a concern for owners.
- Causes: The exact cause is debated, but common theories include a diet too rich in surface-feeding foods, genetics, a lack of visual stimulation in the lower parts of the tank, or even a build-up of fatty deposits behind the eye.
-
Prevention/Mitigation:
- Feed sinking foods primarily to encourage downward looking.
- Use a dark substrate to reduce reflections.
- Keep the tank bottom clear of distracting elements.
- Some aquarists use ping-pong balls floating on the surface to encourage upward gaze (though this is controversial).
- In severe cases, surgical correction is possible, but it’s risky and should only be performed by an experienced aquatic veterinarian.
Fin Rot & Bacterial Infections
Like many fish, Arowanas can suffer from fin rot and other bacterial infections, especially if water quality is poor or they are stressed.
- Causes: Poor water quality, sudden temperature changes, stress, injury from tank mates or decor, and inadequate diet can all contribute.
- Prevention: Maintain pristine water parameters through regular water changes and robust filtration. Provide a stable environment and a nutritious diet.
- Treatment: Isolate the affected fish if possible. Perform large water changes. Over-the-counter bacterial medications can be effective, but always follow dosage instructions carefully.
Jumpers: The Arowana’s Leaping Tendencies
Arowanas are powerful jumpers, especially when startled or hunting prey. This is a natural instinct, but it poses a significant risk in an aquarium.
- Prevention: As mentioned, a heavy, tightly fitting lid is paramount. Ensure there are no gaps around heaters, filters, or wires where the fish could escape. Some aquarists even use weights on the lid. These are crucial what is arowana fish called tips for safety.
Aggression and Bullying
While generally peaceful towards fish too large to eat, Arowanas can be aggressive towards tank mates if crowded, stressed, or if tank mates are poorly chosen.
- Prevention: Ensure your tank is adequately sized for your Arowana and any tank mates. Choose tank mates carefully, avoiding species known for aggression or fin-nipping. Provide plenty of hiding spots for other fish, but ensure the Arowana still has ample swimming room.
Sustainable Arowana Keeping: An Eco-Friendly Approach
When considering an Arowana, especially an Asian Arowana, it’s essential to think about sustainability and ethical sourcing. Many species face conservation challenges in the wild.
- Conservation Status: Several species of Asian Arowana (Scleropages formosus) are listed under CITES Appendix I, meaning they are endangered and their international trade is strictly regulated.
- Source Responsibly: If you are interested in an Asian Arowana, always ensure you purchase from a reputable dealer who can provide CITES documentation and microchip identification. This confirms the fish is captive-bred and legally traded. This is a core part of sustainable what is arowana fish called practices.
- Avoid Wild-Caught Specimens: Support aquaculture efforts and avoid purchasing wild-caught specimens, especially of endangered species. Your choices as an aquarist have an impact on wild populations.
- Long-Term Commitment: Arowanas are long-lived fish, often living 10-20 years or more with proper care. Be prepared for this significant long-term commitment. This contributes to an eco-friendly what is arowana fish called approach by reducing the demand for replacements.
Frequently Asked Questions About Arowana Fish
What is the most common name for an Arowana?
The most common and widely recognized name for the Arowana is the “Dragon Fish,” a moniker that perfectly encapsulates its majestic appearance and cultural significance.
Are Arowanas good for beginners?
While their beauty is undeniable, Arowanas are generally considered to be for intermediate to advanced aquarists. This is primarily due to their immense size requirements, specific water quality needs, and long lifespan. However, with thorough research, a dedicated commitment to providing the right environment, and a willingness to learn, a determined beginner can certainly succeed.
How long do Arowana fish live?
With optimal care and a well-maintained environment, Arowana fish can live for an impressive 10 to 20 years, and some individuals may even exceed that. This makes them a significant and rewarding long-term companion.
Can Arowanas be kept in a community tank?
Yes, but with extreme caution and careful planning. Arowanas are predatory, so any tank mates must be significantly larger than the Arowana’s mouth and robust enough to handle its presence. Ideal companions are often large, semi-aggressive fish that occupy different swimming levels, reducing direct competition and aggression. Always monitor interactions closely.
What do I do if my Arowana has droop eye?
Addressing droop eye often starts with dietary adjustments, such as reducing fatty foods and ensuring the primary diet consists of sinking foods to encourage downward gazing. Altering tank decor to remove distractions at the bottom, using a dark substrate, and maintaining excellent water quality can also help. In very severe or persistent cases, specialized surgical intervention by an aquatic veterinarian is an option, though it carries risks.
Conclusion
You’ve now journeyed through the fascinating world of the Arowana, understanding not just what is Arowana fish called, but also the deep responsibility and immense joy that comes with keeping one of these magnificent creatures. From its regal title as the “Dragon Fish” to the nuanced requirements of its care, you’re now equipped with a wealth of knowledge.
Remember, success with an Arowana hinges on providing a spacious home, pristine water, a varied diet, and a secure environment. By following these what is arowana fish called best practices and committing to responsible, sustainable sourcing, you’re not just keeping a fish—you’re nurturing a living legend.
The Arowana is more than just a pet; it’s a centerpiece, a conversation starter, and a symbol of natural beauty. With the insights shared in this comprehensive what is arowana fish called care guide, you’re ready to provide a truly enriching life for your own Dragon Fish. Embrace the challenge, enjoy the journey, and watch your majestic Arowana thrive!
- Arowana Fish Vs Flowerhorn – Deciding On Your Majestic Aquatic - January 4, 2026
- Arowana Fish Growth Step By Step – Master Their Majestic Journey From - January 3, 2026
- Arowana Fish With Flowerhorn – Expert Tips For A Thriving Power Pair - January 3, 2026