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How to Care for Arowana Fish?

Updated: Dec 5, 2024

Arowana fish is an exotic and highly attractive aquarium fish that draws people in with its unique appearance and graceful movements. It is typically found in the freshwater regions of Southeast Asia, South America, and Australia. Arowana is also known as the "Dragon Fish" due to its elongated body and scales, which give it a dragon-like appearance. This fish has a distinctive and royal look, making it easily noticeable in any tank. It can grow quite large, reaching lengths of 2-3 feet, provided it is given proper tank space and care.



Arowana Fish
Arowana Fish

Types of Arowana Fish:


  • Asian Arowana - This variety is found in red, gold, and silver colors and is the most expensive among all Arowanas.

  • Silver Arowana - Native to South America, the Silver Arowana is relatively affordable compared to other types.

  • Black Arowana - Found in South America, the Black Arowana has a striking color combination of black and blue shades.

  • Jardini Arowana - Native to Australia and New Guinea, the Jardini Arowana is known for its slightly more aggressive nature.


Arowana Fish Behavior:


Arowana fish is known for its aggressive and powerful behavior, which comes from its natural hunting instincts. It usually swims at the top of the tank and establishes its presence. When it sees small fish or insects, it quickly detects them and starts chasing, showing its hunting skills. Arowanas are reserved and sometimes aggressive. They are top-dwelling fish, meaning they swim near the surface and tend to protect their space. You might also see them jumping out of the water, so it's important to keep the tank lid tightly closed.

Arowanas have a strong hunting instinct. They can spot insects and small fish with their sharp eyesight and chase them, which is fun to watch.

Their unique behavior adds to their charm. However, they require special care. If you're an Arowana lover, make sure to meet its needs to enjoy its beauty and behavior fully.


Arowana Fish Tank Setup:

Arowana Fish
Arowana Fish

Arowana fish requires a large and spacious tank because it grows quickly and becomes quite large. For an adult Arowana, a tank of at least 150 gallons or more is ideal.


  • Tank Size: Choose a minimum of 150 gallons (approximately 567.8 liters) for ample swimming space.

  • Water Temperature: As a tropical fish, Arowana needs the water temperature to be between 24-28°C.

  • pH Level: Arowana prefers slightly acidic water, with an ideal pH range of 6.5-7.5.

  • Tank Cover: Arowanas are active jumpers, so always use a tank cover to prevent them from leaping out.

  • Filtration System: Clean and oxygenated water is crucial. A strong filtration system and regular water changes are essential to maintain water quality.


Arowana Fish Diet and Feeding :

Arowana Fish
Arowana Fish

Arowana fish is carnivorous, which means it primarily prefers a meat-based diet. To support its digestive health and growth, it requires a high-protein diet. While live foods are ideal, you can also feed it pellets and frozen foods occasionally.


Live Food: Crickets, grasshoppers, mealworms, and small fish that are free of parasites are great options.

Frozen Food: Frozen shrimp and fish are nutritious and a good addition to its diet.

High-Quality Pellets: Protein-rich pellets specifically designed for Arowana are excellent.

Occasional Treats: You can occasionally feed prawns and superworms.

Avoid overfeeding, as it can lead to digestive issues and poor water quality. It's also beneficial to fast your Arowana for a day or two in each week.


Arowana Fish Tankmates :

Arowana fish is popular for its beauty and unique appearance, but choosing the right tank mates is essential because it can grow large and sometimes be aggressive. The ideal tank mates for Arowana are those that are big and sturdy enough to survive with it without any risk. Plecos are a good option as they are bottom-dwelling fish that help keep the tank clean. Oscar fish also make a great match due to their size and similar temperament. Clown Knifefish, being peaceful, can manage their own space without much issue, while Silver Dollars, fast-moving schooling fish, can avoid Arowana's aggression. Bichir fish are bottom-dwellers that stay out of the way and enjoy their own space without interfering with the Arowana. To maintain harmony, a large tank (at least 200 gallons) is recommended, along with regular water changes and strong filtration to manage the bioload. It’s important to monitor the behavior of all tank mates, as aggression can sometimes occur, and their dietary needs should also be taken into account. With the right setup and care, Arowana and its tank mates can peacefully coexist, making your aquarium vibrant and dynamic.



Arowana Fish Health Issues and Disease Prevention :

Arowana Fish
Arowana Fish

Maintaining the health of your Arowana fish is crucial, as poor water quality or an inadequate diet can make them vulnerable to diseases. Some common health issues that Arowanas may face include:

  1. Drop Eye: This condition occurs when the fish's eyes point downward. It is common and is usually caused by genetic factors or poor water quality.

  2. Gill Curl: This happens when the gills curl, often due to poor water conditions or improper tank setup.

  3. Fin Rot: A bacterial infection caused by poor water quality and stress, leading to decaying fins.


Health Tips and Prevention:

  • Weekly Water Changes: Regularly change 20-30% of the water every week to maintain good water quality.

  • Balanced Diet: Provide a high-protein, balanced diet to meet the nutritional needs of your Arowana.

  • Disease Monitoring: Observe your Arowana’s behavior and appearance regularly for any signs of illness. If you notice any symptoms, take immediate action to prevent further complications.



Proper care for Arowana fish is essential for their long-term health and happiness. With the right tank setup, high-quality diet, and regular maintenance, you can provide your Arowana with a healthy and vibrant life. By following these care tips, you can create a stress-free and beautiful environment that enhances their natural beauty, making your aquarium more lively and attractive. Ensuring the right conditions will help your Arowana thrive and live a fulfilling life.


 

At Promeal, we know how important it is to give your pets a healthy and varied diet. That’s why we create high-quality, natural pet food to keep them happy and healthy.

Our specialty is premium live and dried insect-based feeds like mealworms, superworms, crickets, roaches, waxworms, and hornworms. These insects are grown on an organic diet, making them a nutritious and tasty treat for your pets.


Check out our "Shop" section to find the perfect food for your pets!

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