Arowana 101: Everything You Need to Know About the Dragon Fish

Arowana fish, also known as “dragon fish,” are renowned for their beauty, cultural significance, and unique characteristics. This guide explores their history, types, habitat, care, feeding habits, health, legal considerations, and cultural impact.

Table of Contents

History and Background

Origin of Arowana Fish

Origins: Tropical regions of South America, especially the Amazon River basin.
Adaptations: Evolved in densely vegetated waterways with unique physical and behavioral traits.

Cultural Significance in Asia

China: Symbols of prosperity, good luck, and wealth.
Ownership: Prized by affluent individuals and business owners; some specimens fetch high prices.

Evolutionary Traits

Physical Traits: Elongated bodies, large scales, distinctive barbels.
Behavior: Ability to jump out of water, sensitive lateral line system.

Biogeography and Speciation

Genus	Species	Distribution
Osteoglossum	O. bicirrhosum	South America
	O. ferreirai	South America
Scleropages	S. formosus	Southeast Asia
	S. jardinii	Australia
	S. leichardti	Australia

Prehistoric Features

Prepare to be stunned! Arowanas flaunt:

Elongated torpedo bodies
Metallic, enameled scales
Extending jaws with fang-like teeth
Billowing fins for elegant swimming

Sizes range from 2-4 feet. Their dinosaur-like presence demands attention.

Why Get an Arowana?

Cultural Significance

Asians revere arowanas symbolizing prosperity, luck, and spiritual protection. Legend states keeping one at home wards off evil.

Visual Splendor

Each arowana’s distinct colors and animated fins make them aquatic artworks. Witnessing these dragons in person is unforgettable.

Clever Behavior

Don’t underestimate arowana intelligence! They interact, learn routines, and some even perform tricks like feeding by hand.

Mastering Arowana Care

Tanking the Beast

Minimum: 180 gallons for one, 250+ for pairs
Ample length and open swimming space
Smooth decor avoiding snagged fins
Sand substrate

Water Wisdom

pH 6.8 – 7.5
76-84°F
Moderate hardness
Pristine via strong filtration & frequent water changes

Feeding Frenzy

Carnivorous cravings mean varied meaty meals:

Live feeder fish (ideal)
Frozen shrimp, krill, silversides
Quality pellets/sticks

Daily feeding satisfies their hefty appetites.

Types of Arowana

Type	Description	Image
Super red Arowana	Known as the dragon fish; revered in Asian folklore. Comes in red, gold, green, and blue.
Silver Arowana	Popular in South America; sleek silver body; known for leaping out of water.
African Arowana	The African arowana or Nile arowana is a species of bonytongue. Despite being called an “arowana”, the African arowana is more closely related to arapaimas, the only other members in the subfamily Arapaimina.

Arowana Habitat and Care

Ideal Tank Setup

Tank Size: Minimum 150 gallons for juveniles; larger for adults.
Water Parameters: Temperature 75-82°F (24-28°C), pH 6.5-7.5, hardness 5-15 dGH.
Filtration: Robust system with mechanical and biological filtration.
Lighting: Subdued lighting to mimic natural habitat.

Water Quality Maintenance Tips

Regular Water Changes: Weekly changes of 20-30%.
Monitor Parameters: Use reliable test kits.
Feeding Practices: Avoid overfeeding; offer a varied diet.

Suitable Tank Mates

Compatible Species: Large, peaceful fish like Oscars, large catfish, and similar cichlids.
Avoid: Smaller or timid species to prevent stress and aggression.

Feeding Habits and Nutrition

Dietary Requirements

Diet: Live, frozen, and prepared foods including small fish, shrimp, crickets, earthworms, high-quality pellets.
Variety: Ensure a diverse diet for nutritional balance.

Feeding Schedule

Frequency: Feed adults once or twice daily.
Portion Control: Feed only what they consume in a few minutes.

Common Feeding Issues

Refusal to Eat: Check water quality; offer various foods.
Finicky Habits: Experiment with different foods.
Aggressive Behavior: Feed separately or use feeding rings.

Territorial Tendencies

Arowanas fiercely guard territory from tankmates. Proper housing minimizes aggression. Pairs often conflict.

Brain Power

Ranked among freshwater’s smartest, arowanas recognize owners, follow routines, and can even be trained!

Jumping Jacks

An erratic jumping habit helps escape predators in the wild. But at home, it demands a tightly sealed tank lid.

Keeping Arowanas Healthy

Common Concerns

Watch for these potential issues:

Hole-in-the-head
Fin/tail rot
Hexamita
Velvet
Lymphocystis

Top-notch water quality prevents most problems.

Quarantine Caution

Always quarantine new arowanas for 2-4 weeks. Closely monitor and treat any ailments before entering the main tank.

Breeding Impossibilities?

The fry’s precise needs make home arowana breeding nearly impossible. Most hobbyists obtain captive-bred juveniles instead.

Legal Limitations

Many areas require permits or ban arowana ownership entirely to protect this endangered species from irresponsible releases. Research and obey all local exotic pet laws.

Myth or Must-Have?

Undoubtedly, arowanas demand dedication few hobbyists can match. But for those willing, the prehistoric prowess and personalities of these living dragons deliver an experience like no other!

Health and Disease Management

Common Health Issues

Infections: Fungal, bacterial, parasitic.
Stress-Related Illnesses: Fin rot, ich, dropsy.

Symptoms and Prevention

Watch for Signs: Abnormal swimming, lethargy, loss of appetite, lesions, rapid breathing.
Preventive Measures: Maintain water quality, quarantine new fish.

Treatment Options

Isolation: Quarantine affected fish.
Medications: Use medicated baths, antibiotics, antifungals, salt baths.
Consult a Veterinarian: If unsure or if the condition worsens.

Legal Considerations and Conservation Efforts

Regulations

Ownership and Trade: Subject to strict regulations for endangered species.
Laws: Control import, export, and trade to prevent overexploitation.

Conservation Status

Endangered Species: Asian Arowana and others due to habitat loss, overfishing, illegal collection.
Efforts: Habitat restoration, regulatory enforcement, community engagement.

Responsible Ownership

Ethical Sourcing: Obtain from reputable breeders or licensed dealers.
Avoid Illegal Trade: Purchase from certified sources.
Education and Advocacy: Promote conservation and sustainable practices.

Arowana in Mythology and Culture

Mythological Significance

Chinese Mythology: Symbol of wealth, prosperity, and good fortune.
South American Tribes: Sacred creatures with mystical powers.

Symbolism

Strength and Resilience: Majestic appearance, predatory nature.
Feng Shui: Auspicious symbol of wealth and abundance.

Cultural Practices

Hobby and Competitions: Enthusiasts participate in exhibitions; prized specimens are valuable.
Rituals and Ceremonies: Releasing Arowanas during auspicious occasions for prosperity.

Conclusion

Understanding Arowana fish involves appreciating their history, habitat, care requirements, feeding habits, health management, legal status, and cultural significance. Responsible ownership and conservation efforts are essential for their well-being and preservation.

FAQs

How long do arowanas live?
20-35 years, potentially over 50 with diligent care!

Safe with other fish? Generally no due to size and predatory nature. Only try largest, robust tankmates.

Child-friendly? Supervise any child interactions. Mishandling risks injury from powerful jaws.

What do arowanas cost?
$50-300 for common green varieties. Super reds frequently $500-2000+.

Outdoor ponding? Rarely advised since temperatures fluctuate and escapes could establish invasive populations.