Top 10 Stunning Arowana Species for Your Home Aquarium in 2024

Did you know that the Asian Arowana can fetch prices exceeding $300,000, making it one of the most valuable aquarium fish globally? This astonishing fact raises an intriguing question: What makes these dragon fish so captivating that enthusiasts are willing to invest a small fortune in them? As we explore the top 10 Arowana species suitable for home aquariums, we’ll uncover the unique characteristics that have elevated these ancient fish to legendary status in the aquarium hobby.

Table of Contents

Understanding Arowana Basics

What are Arowanas and why are they so popular?

Arowanas, often called dragon fish, belong to the family Osteoglossidae. These prehistoric freshwater fish have captured the hearts of aquarists worldwide due to their:

Striking appearance
Longevity (up to 50 years)
Intelligent behavior
Cultural significance in many Asian countries

Overview of Arowana taxonomy and classification

Arowana taxonomy places these fish in the following hierarchy:

Order: Osteoglossiformes
Family: Osteoglossidae
Genera: Scleropages and Osteoglossum

Common characteristics shared by all Arowana varieties

All Arowana species share certain traits:

Elongated body shape
Large, metallic scales
Upward-facing mouth
Barbels on the lower jaw
Ability to jump out of water
Carnivorous diet

Top 10 Arowana Species for Home Aquariums

Silver Arowana (Osteoglossum bicirrhosum)
Black Arowana (Osteoglossum ferreirai)
Asian Arowana – Golden variety (Scleropages formosus)
Asian Arowana – Red variety (Scleropages formosus)
Asian Arowana – Green variety (Scleropages formosus)
Australian Arowana (Scleropages jardinii)
Pearl Arowana (Scleropages legendrei)
Cross-back Golden Arowana (Scleropages formosus variant)
Blue Base Arowana (Scleropages formosus variant)
Banjar Red Arowana (Scleropages formosus variant)

Key Features for Identifying Arowanas

Body shape and size differences among varieties

Species	Average Adult Size	Body Shape
Silver Arowana	75-100 cm	Elongated, slender
Asian Arowana	60-90 cm	Slightly compressed
Black Arowana	90-120 cm	Similar to Silver, but bulkier
Australian Arowana	60-90 cm	Stockier build

Fin structure and placement

Arowana fin structure is crucial for identification:

Dorsal and anal fins: Positioned far back on the body
Pectoral fins: Large and wing-like
Caudal fin: Rounded in most species

Scale patterns and textures

Arowana scale patterns vary among species:

Asian Arowana: Large, metallic scales with intense shine
Silver Arowana: Silvery scales with subtle rainbow hues
Black Arowana: Dark, matte scales
Australian Arowana: Scales often feature dark spots

Head and mouth shape variations

Asian Arowana: Concave forehead profile
Silver and Black Arowana: More streamlined head shape
All varieties have an upturned mouth, but the angle can vary

Color Variations and Patterns

Understanding base colors vs. color morphs

Arowana color morphs are variations from the base colors:

Base colors: Silver, green, gold
Color morphs: Red, blue, platinum

Metallic and non-metallic scales

Metallic scales: Common in Asian varieties
Non-metallic scales: Typical in South American species

Unique patterns and markings

Crossback Arowana: Dark pattern extending down the sides
Red-tailed golden Arowana: Golden body with vibrant red fins

How lighting affects color perception

Arowana color variations can be influenced by:

Natural sunlight: Brings out true colors
LED lighting: Can enhance specific hues

Age and Size Considerations in Identification

How Arowana appearance changes with age

Arowana age differences affect their looks:

Juveniles: Less vibrant colors
Adults: Fuller bodies, more intense coloration

Size differences between varieties

Refer to the table in the “Body shape and size differences” section.

Growth rates and maximum sizes

Arowana growth rate: 2-3 cm per month under optimal conditions
Arowana maximum size: Up to 120 cm in some species

Common Mistakes in Arowana Identification

Look-alike species and how to differentiate them

Silver vs. Black Arowana:
- Observe overall body color
- Check fin coloration
Asian Arowana color variants:
- Examine under various lighting conditions
- Consider geographical origin

Factors that can alter Arowana appearance

Diet
Stress levels
Water quality
Lighting conditions

The importance of reputable sources and expert opinions

Always consult:

Certified Arowana breeders
Scientific literature
Experienced aquarists

Tools and Resources for Arowana Identification

Recommended guidebooks and online resources

Importance of high-quality photographs for identification

Use high-resolution cameras
Capture multiple angles
Ensure proper lighting

Joining Arowana enthusiast communities for expert advice

Online forums like Monster Fish Keepers
Local aquarium clubs
Social media groups dedicated to Arowana keeping

Key Takeaways:

Understand the unique features of each Arowana species
Consider size requirements when choosing an Arowana for your aquarium
Be aware of color variations and how they’re affected by environmental factors
Use reliable resources and expert opinions for accurate identification
Recognize the long-term commitment required for Arowana care.

Live Red Arowana For Sale

By familiarizing yourself with these top 10 Arowana species, you’ll be well-equipped to choose the perfect dragon fish for your home aquarium. Remember, keeping an Arowana is a significant commitment, requiring a large tank, specialized care, and often a considerable financial investment.

“Arowanas are not merely fish; they are living works of art that require dedication, knowledge, and respect.” – Dr. Emily Zhao, Ichthyologist

Which Arowana species is best for beginners? The Silver Arowana is often recommended for beginners due to its hardiness and relatively lower price point.
How large of an aquarium do I need for an Arowana? A minimum of 250 gallons (950 liters) is recommended for most Arowana species, with larger tanks preferred.
Are Arowanas legal to keep in all countries? No, some countries have restrictions on certain Arowana species. Always check local regulations before purchasing.
How often should I feed my Arowana? Adult Arowanas typically need feeding 2-3 times a week, while juveniles require daily feeding.
Can Arowanas be kept with other fish? Yes, but carefully. They are predatory and may eat smaller fish. Choose large, peaceful tank mates.
How can I tell if my Arowana is male or female? It’s challenging without professional expertise. Some believe females have a fuller body shape, but this is not always reliable.
What’s the lifespan of an Arowana in captivity? With proper care, Arowanas can live 20-50 years in captivity, depending on the species.