Everything You Need to Know for Beginners Guide to Keeping Arowana Fish

Arowana fish are among the most sought-after freshwater aquarium species due to their striking appearance, unique swimming style, and cultural significance. They are often considered a symbol of prosperity and good luck in many cultures. However, keeping an arowana fish for sale. requires dedication, proper care, and knowledge about its specific needs. If you are a beginner looking to keep an Arowana, this guide will provide you with essential information to ensure your fish thrives in its new home.

Choosing the Right Arowana Species

Arowanas come in various species, each with unique colors, sizes, and temperaments. Some of the most popular species include:

• Asian Arowana (Scleropages formosus): Known for its vibrant colors such as red, gold, and green. It is highly prized but can be expensive and requires permits in some regions.
• Silver Arowana (Osteoglossum bicirrhosum): More affordable and commonly found in the aquarium trade. They grow up to 3 feet long and are known for their jumping abilities.
• Black Arowana (Osteoglossum ferreirai): Similar to the silver Arowana but with a darker hue and slightly smaller size.
• Australian Arowana (Scleropages jardinii): Also known as the Jardini Arowana, this species is aggressive and requires a spacious tank.

Setting Up the Ideal Tank

Arowanas are large, active fish that need ample space to swim. Setting up the right tank is crucial for their health and longevity.

Tank Size and Shape

• A minimum of 150 gallons is recommended for young Arowanas, but as they grow, they require tanks of 250–500 gallons.
• Arowanas are surface swimmers, so a long and wide tank is preferable over a tall one.
• The tank should have a secure lid to prevent jumping, as Arowanas are known to leap several feet out of the water.

Filtration and Water Parameters

• Strong filtration is necessary to keep the water clean, as Arowanas produce a lot of waste.
• Maintain a water temperature between 75–86°F (24–30°C).
• The pH level should be 6.5–7.5, with moderate hardness.
• Perform weekly water changes (20–30%) to keep ammonia and nitrate levels in check.

Tank Decorations and Substrate

• Keep decorations minimal to allow ample swimming space.
• Use fine gravel or sand as a substrate to mimic their natural habitat.
• Adding driftwood and floating plants can provide hiding spots and reduce stress.

Feeding and Nutrition

Arowanas are carnivorous and require a high-protein diet. Their diet should be varied to ensure optimal health.

Recommended Foods

• Live food: Insects, small fish, shrimp, and worms.
• Frozen food: Bloodworms, krill, and prawns.
• Pellets and formulated diets: High-quality Arowana pellets provide balanced nutrition.
• Occasional treats: Crickets, frogs, and small crustaceans.

Feeding Schedule

• Feed young Arowanas 2–3 times daily.
• Adult Arowanas can be fed once or twice daily.
• Avoid overfeeding, as it can lead to water quality issues and obesity.

Tank Mates and Compatibility

Arowanas are territorial and predatory, so choosing compatible tank mates is essential.

Suitable Tank Mates

• Large, semi-aggressive fish like bichirs, datnoids, and stingrays.
• Bottom dwellers such as plecos and catfish.
• Other large predatory fish like oscars and peacock bass (if tank size allows).

Fish to Avoid

• Small fish that can fit in an Arowana’s mouth (e.g., tetras and guppies).
• Highly aggressive fish that might injure the Arowana (e.g., some cichlids).

Common Health Issues and Treatment

Arowanas are hardy but can suffer from various health issues if not cared for properly.

Common Diseases

• Drop eye: A condition where one or both eyes droop downward. This is common in Silver Arowanas and can be caused by excessive surface feeding or genetics.
• Ich (White Spot Disease): Characterized by white spots on the body and fins. Treat with increased temperature and anti-parasitic medications.
• Fin rot: Caused by poor water quality or bacterial infections. Improve water conditions and use antibacterial treatments.
• Swim bladder disorder: Leads to difficulty in maintaining balance. This can be due to overfeeding or poor diet.

Handling and Maintenance

• Avoid handling your Arowana unnecessarily, as it can cause stress.
• Use proper netting techniques if you need to transfer it.
• Regularly check water parameters using a test kit.
• Perform tank maintenance weekly to ensure a clean and stable environment.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

• Some Arowana species, particularly the Asian Arowana, are protected under CITES regulations and may require permits to own.
• Ensure you buy from reputable breeders or licensed dealers to avoid supporting illegal trade.
• Avoid releasing Arowanas into the wild, as they can become invasive species.

Conclusion

Keeping an Arowana fish is a rewarding experience but requires commitment and proper knowledge. By setting up the right tank, providing a nutritious diet, and maintaining water quality, you can ensure your Arowana thrives for years to come. With the right care, these majestic fish can live up to 15–20 years, making them a long-term aquatic companion. Whether you are drawn to their beauty, cultural significance, or unique behavior, an Arowana can be a fascinating addition to your aquarium.