Few fish inspire as much admiration and enthusiasm as the Arowana. Known affectionately as the “dragon fish” for its stunning, metallic scales and elegant, serpent-like swimming, it stands as a remarkable treasure in the aquarium world. Revered in many cultures as a beacon of good fortune and prosperity, it also presents an exciting challenge for freshwater fish enthusiasts. This guide will joyfully answer all your questions about what it takes to nurture the majestic King of the Aquarium.
Admiring the Apex Predator
I have never had the privilege of keeping an Arowana, but it remains a “someday” dream fish that I deeply admire from afar. Although my experience with large, carnivorous fish comes from my Channa pair my beloved “aquatic puppies” which are interactive and intelligent they have a terrestrial, almost grounded personality.
The Arowana is an absolutely extraordinary creature! As a breathtaking apex predator of the water column, it embodies both ancient power and majestic grace. Welcoming one into your home is akin to inviting a vibrant piece of prehistoric artistry into your very existence. Yes, it demands a significant commitment. It also requires a generous amount of space. I’ve never quite encountered this before. Nevertheless, I truly believe that the journey you embark on is worth every thrilling moment. This guide is a celebration of that exhilarating adventure, crafted for those who are ready to dive headfirst into the ultimate challenge with unbridled enthusiasm!
Why Are Arowanas So Expensive?
The breathtaking price tag is a testament to the extraordinary fusion of rarity, insatiable demand, cultural adoration, and the formidable challenges of slow breeding. It’s exhilarating to witness the dazzling Asian Arowana (Scleropages formosus). This remarkable fish is treasured not only for its stunning beauty. It is also a CITES listed species with its trade regulated to ensure its survival. Furthermore, nurturing high-grade, captive-bred Arowanas is a heartfelt journey. Each Arowana is a vibrant masterpiece bursting with color and exceptional genetics. This process is truly a labor of love, often spanning many years. This unwavering passion transforms these magnificent creatures into invaluable investments for breeders, symbolizing their profound dedication to preserving this extraordinary species.
What Are the Most Expensive Types of Arowana?
The Asian Arowana truly stands out as a remarkable gem among them all! With their stunning colors, patterns, and elegant fins, they are celebrated and admired everywhere.
- Silver: In contrast, the more common species from South America is the most common and affordable type found in pet stores.
- Platinum: This is the rarest and most expensive, characterized by a pure, unblemished silvery-white body. The “Platinum” Arowana is actually a genetic mutation (leucism) of the Silver Arowana (or sometimes the Asian), not a separate species. They are indeed the most expensive aquarium fish in the world.
- Super Red: known for their deep red coloration.
- Golden: This category includes several grades, with the most prized being the Crossback Golden, where the golden color crosses the entire back of the fish. These are, consequently, exceptionally valuable.
Legal Note: The Asian Arowana is banned from import in the United States under the Endangered Species Act, making the Silver Arowana the primary option for US hobbyists.
What is the Arowana’s Connection to Dragons?
The Arowana is called the “dragon fish” in many Asian cultures, particularly in Feng Shui. This is primarily due toits unique physical characteristics: Large, metallic, coin-like scales that resemble a dragon’s armor, two prominent barbels on its chin that look like a dragon’s whiskers, and a graceful, powerful swimming motion. Because of these qualities, they are believed to bring good fortune, wealth, and protection to their owners.
How Big Do They Get?
Arowanas are massive fish. For example, the common Silver Arowana can easily reach 3 feet (approx. 90 cm) in a home aquarium. This immense adult size is, consequently, the single most important factor to consider before buying one.
Are They Good Fish for Beginners?
No, absolutely not. Arowanas are strictly for advanced, experienced hobbyists who have the resources, space, and dedication required to meet their demanding needs for their entire long life.
Arowana Fish Aquarium Size
Due to their massive size and active swimming nature, Arowanas require enormous tanks.
Dimensions: Furthermore, the tank’s width (front to back) is just as important as its length, as the fish needs ample room to turn around. Therefore, a tank that is at least 24-30 inches (60-76 cm) wide is essential.
Minimum Size for one Adult: Consequently, a 250-gallon (approx. 950 liters) tank is the absolute minimum.
What Are Their Water Requirements?
Temperature: Maintain the temperature between 75-82∘F (24-28∘C).
pH: A stable pH between 6.0 and 7.0 is ideal.
Pristine Water: As large carnivores, Arowanas produce a substantial bio-load, making it imperative to maintain water that is impeccably clean with 0 ppm ammonia, 0 ppm nitrite, and minimal nitrates. Achieving this standard demands a robust filtration system—often involving multiple canister filters or a sump and necessitates large and frequent water changes to ensure their optimal health.
What Do They Eat?
Diet: In captivity, therefore, their diet should consist of high-quality pellets formulated for large carnivorous fish, supplemented with a variety of foods like crickets, earthworms, and frozen shrimp or fish pieces.
Explore Alternative Fish Food: It’s exciting to consider that instead of feeding live “feeder fish” (like goldfish), there are numerous nutritious and wholesome alternatives available! These options not only enhance the health of your fish but also help you maintain a disease-free environment while ensuring they receive top-notch nutrition.
What Are Good Tank Mates for an Arowana?
Choosing tank mates is challenging. The rule is simple: if a fish can fit in the Arowana’s mouth, it will eventually be eaten. Good Choices are large, peaceful, bottom-dwelling fish are the best option. Think large Plecos, Datnoids, or peaceful adult Cichlids that are too big to be seen as prey.
What Are Common Health Issues?
Drop Eye: A common condition where one or both eyes begin to droop downwards, While “looking down” is the popular theory, scientific consensus also points to fatty deposits behind the eye caused by a high-fat diet (like too many goldfish/worms) pushing the eye outward and down.
Physical Injury: Arowanas are powerful jumpers. Without a heavy, secure lid, they can easily jump out of the tank, causing severe injury or death.
Poor Water Quality Issues: Fin rot and bacterial infections can occur if their demanding water maintenance schedule is not met.
Sources
- The Spruce Pets (Species Profile)
- National Geographic (The World’s Most Expensive Fish)
- Fish Laboratory (Silver Arowana Care)
- Aquarium Source (Diet & Drop Eye)
- Monster Fish Keepers (Community Forum for Large Fish)
Leave a Reply