Perfect Tank Setup for Arowana Fish: Tips for a Healthy Habitat
- mktpromeal
- Dec 4, 2024
- 5 min read
Updated: Dec 29, 2025
The Arowana fish, also known as the "dragon fish," is beautiful and lucky. If you are thinking of keeping an Arowana, you will need to create a special and unique tank setup because this fish grows quite large and is somewhat delicate. Creating the right tank environment is one of the most important steps in long-term Arowana care, which is explained in detail in How to Care for Arowana Fish?
1. Arowana Fish Tank Size and Shape:
The Arowana is a large fish that can grow up to 3 feet in length, so its tank size and shape are crucial.
Arowanas need a tank that is at least 6 feet long, with a capacity of 250-300 liters. It's even better to provide a larger tank, as Arowanas require ample space to thrive.
The size of the tank directly affects the Arowana's health and growth, so keeping it in a small tank can be risky.
Rectangular-shaped tanks are the best option for Arowanas. They need horizontal swimming space, and rectangular tanks provide more room for them to move comfortably.
Tank size plays a crucial role not only in growth but also in successful breeding, as explained in Arowana Breeding and Fry Care: Essential Tips for Success.
Avoid tall tanks, as Arowanas do not swim vertically. Horizontal tanks are more suitable for them.
Arowanas love to jump, so if your tank is open, it's essential to use a cover to prevent them from jumping out.
2. Water Conditions for Arowana Fish:
Arowanas are sensitive to water conditions, so clean and stable water is essential for their well-being. Poor water conditions are one of the main causes of stress and disease in Arowanas, which are covered in Arowana Fish Health: Common Diseases and Their Treatments.
Temperature:
Arowanas are tropical fish, so they require a water temperature between 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). Use an aquarium heater to maintain a stable temperature, as cold water can cause stress to the fish.
pH Level:
Arowanas prefer neutral to slightly acidic water. The ideal pH level should be between 6.5 and 7.5. It's important to regularly check the water's pH level, as incorrect pH can lead to health problems for the Arowana fish.
Water Hardness:
Arowanas prefer soft to medium-hard water. If your tap water is hard, you can control the hardness by using distilled or soft water.
Filtration:
Arowanas need clean, filtered water. A high-quality external filter is required to purify the water and provide oxygenation. Strong filtration is essential, but make sure the flow speed is moderate, as Arowanas do not like strong currents.
Maintaining stable temperature and pH helps prevent common issues like ich and fin rot, which are discussed in Healthy Arowana Fish Ke Liye Perfect Diet Aur Disease Prevention Tips.
Arowanas prefer gentle to moderate water movement. Strong currents can cause stress, so it's important to adjust the flow to ensure it's not too fast or too slow. You can adjust the filter flow, but it should not be strong enough to cause discomfort to the fish.
3. Substrate and Decoration For Arowana Fish:
Arowanas prefer clean and smooth surfaces. The substrate should not have any rough or sharp materials that could potentially injure them.
Fine gravel or smooth sand is the best choice. Smooth sand, in particular, keeps Arowanas' fins safe and makes it easier to maintain a clean tank.
Avoid sharp rocks or coarse gravel, as they could cause injury to the fish.
Arowanas do not require excessive decorations. Keep decorations minimal to ensure the fish have ample swimming space.
You can include driftwood or smooth rocks, but the focus of the decoration should be on maximizing the tank's space rather than overcrowding it. Minimal decoration reduces stress and helps prevent appetite loss, which is explained in What to Do When Your Arowana is Not Eating: Understanding and Addressing Appetite Issues.
4. Light Setup for Arowana Fish:
Arowanas do not like intense lighting. Lighting is important, but it should be gentle and soft.
The tank should have a 12-hour light cycle to replicate the natural day-night cycle.
You can use timer lights so that you don’t have to adjust the lighting manually.
LED lights that provide soft, warm light are the best option. Bright and harsh lights can stress Arowanas.
Keep the tank away from direct sunlight, as it can cause temperature fluctuations and promote algae growth. Proper lighting supports natural behavior and color enhancement, which is covered in The Ultimate Arowana Fish Food Guide for Healthy Growth and Vibrant Colour.
5. Maintenance for Arowana Fish:
To keep Arowanas healthy, regular maintenance is essential.
Water Changes:
Perform a 20-30% water change every week. This keeps the water fresh and maintains water quality.
Use a gravel vacuum during water changes to remove waste from the substrate.
Cleaning the Tank:
Clean the tank walls with an algae scraper and regularly clean the filter to ensure it works efficiently.
Arowanas need clean water, so it’s crucial to keep the tank clean and free from debris.
Regular maintenance and water changes are essential for preventing bacterial and fungal infections, as explained in Arowana Fish Health: Common Diseases and Their Treatments.
5. Arowana Fish Tankmates:
Arowanas are not very social fish and tend to protect their territory, so it’s important to carefully choose their tankmates.
Compatible Tankmates:
You can keep large, peaceful fish with Arowanas, such as koi, catfish, or large tetras.
Aggressive Fish:
Avoid small and aggressive fish, as they can cause stress to Arowanas. It’s best to keep Arowanas with calm, larger fish.
To keep an Arowana fish healthy and happy, having the proper tank setup is essential. The more you understand its needs and provide a comfortable and safe environment, the happier and more active your Arowana will be. By considering tank size, water conditions, filtration system, and compatible tankmates, you can create the perfect home for your Arowana. If you want a complete step-by-step explanation of Arowana care in simple language, you can refer to Arowana Fish ki Care kese Karein?
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