Red tail golden arowana – Scleropages Formosus: The Ultimate Guide

Ever wondered about the majestic Red tail golden arowana?

These stunning fish, also known as Dragon Fish or Asian Bonytongue, are the rockstars of the aquarium world.

Let’s dive into the fascinating world of Scleropages Formosus and uncover why they’re so darn special.

What’s the Big Deal with Red-tailed Golden Asian Arowana?

Think of them as the Ferraris of the fish tank.

They’re sleek, they’re beautiful, and they come with a hefty price tag.

But here’s the kicker – they’re worth every penny if you’re serious about fish keeping.

Where Do These Bad Boys Come From?

Red-tailed Golden Asian Arowana are native to Southeast Asia.

We’re talking Thailand, Malaysia, Myanmar, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Cambodia.

Basically, they’re the cool kids of the Southeast Asian waters.

Size Matters: How Big Red tail golden arowana Get?

Hold onto your hats, folks.

These fish can grow up to 36 inches or 90 cm.

That’s right, we’re talking about a fish that’s as long as your average 3-year-old kid.

Setting Up the Perfect Pad for Your Arowana

These fish need space. Lots of it.

For juveniles, you’re looking at a minimum of a 55-gallon tank.

But for the big boys? We’re talking 250 gallons or more.

Think of it like this – would you want to live in a shoebox? Neither do they.

Decor Tips for the Discerning Arowana

These fish have expensive taste, I’ll tell you that.

They like their tanks decked out with:

• Rock work (the fancier, the better)
• Bogwood or driftwood (for that rustic charm)
• Sturdy plants (emphasis on sturdy – these guys can be bulldozers)

The Social Life of an Arowana

Arowanas are like that cool kid in high school.

They can hang with a crowd, but they also like their alone time.

You can keep 6 or more juveniles together, but with adults, it’s a bit of a gamble.

Some adults are like grumpy old men – they don’t play well with others.

Temperature and Water: Getting It Just Right

These fish like it warm.

We’re talking 75-86°F (24-30°C).

As for water chemistry, aim for a pH of 7.0-7.7.

Think of it as creating a tropical paradise in your living room.

Feeding Time: What’s on the Menu?

Juvenile Arowanas are like teenagers – they’ll eat anything.

Small fish, tadpoles, live brine shrimp – you name it, they’ll gobble it up.

But here’s a pro tip: train them to eat pellets and frozen foods.

It’s cheaper, healthier, and way less hassle than constantly hunting for live food.

The Birds and the Bees: Arowana Edition

Sexing Arowanas is tricky business.

There are studies that correlate head size to gender, but they’re only about 70% accurate.

It’s like trying to guess someone’s star sign – you might get it right, but don’t bet your house on it.

Breeding: Not for the Faint-Hearted

Breeding Arowanas is like trying to get pandas to mate in captivity.

It happens, but it’s rare in aquariums.

They’re mouthbrooders, which means the male carries the eggs in his mouth.

Talk about being a hands-on dad!

Safety First: Keeping Your Arowana Safe

Here’s something you need to know – Arowanas are jumpers.

They’re like the Houdinis of the fish world.

Make sure your tank has a tight, secure lid.

Trust me, you don’t want to find your prized Arowana on the living room floor.

The Different Flavors of Asian Arowana

Just like ice cream, Asian Arowanas come in different flavors:

• Cross Back Golden (the rarest and most expensive)
• Super Red (the popular kid)
• Red Tail (that’s our star today)
• Golden
• Green

Each has its own unique charm and price point.

The Legal Lowdown

Here’s the catch – Asian Arowanas are endangered in the wild.

They’re listed on CITES, which means there are strict regulations on their trade.

In fact, they’re illegal to keep or import in the U.S. and some other countries.

Always check your local laws before getting one.

FAQs: Everything You Wanted to Know But Were Afraid to Ask

1. Q: How long do Red-tailed Golden Asian Arowanas live? A: With proper care, they can live up to 20-25 years. It’s like having a scaly, aquatic dog!
2. Q: Can I keep other fish with my Arowana? A: Yes, but choose wisely. Go for peaceful to moderately aggressive fish that are too big to be eaten and won’t harass your Arowana.
3. Q: How often should I feed my Arowana? A: Adults should be fed 2-3 times a week, while juveniles need daily feeding. Think of it like a teenage growth spurt – they need lots of fuel!
4. Q: Do Arowanas recognize their owners? A: Many owners report that their Arowanas seem to recognize them. They’re smart cookies!
5. Q: Why is my Arowana changing color? A: Color changes can be due to age, diet, or stress. It’s like their mood ring!
6. Q: How often should I change the water in my Arowana tank? A: Aim for weekly water changes of about 25%. Think of it as giving your fish a fresh, clean home every week.
7. Q: Are Red-tailed Golden Asian Arowanas good for beginners? A: Not really. They’re more like the PhD of fish keeping. Start with something easier and work your way up.

There you have it, folks – everything you need to know about the Red-tailed Golden Asian Arowana.

These fish are not just pets, they’re a lifestyle.

So, are you ready to dive into the world of Scleropages Formosus?

Remember, keeping an Arowana is a big commitment, but for the right person, it’s an incredible journey.