7 Essential Tips for Buying Arowana Fish

Arowana fish, often referred to as the “dragon fish,” are one of the most majestic and highly sought-after species in the aquarium trade. Known for their sleek, elongated bodies and striking scales, these fish symbolize wealth and good fortune in many cultures, particularly in Asia. If you’re considering adding an Arowana to your collection, here are seven essential tips to help you make an informed and successful purchase.

 

Know the Different Types of Arowana

There are several species of arowana fish for sale, each with its own unique traits. The most common species found in the aquarium trade are:

• Asian Arowana (Scleropages formosus): Known for its silver or gold color, this species is considered the most auspicious and is prized for its beauty and rarity. It is also one of the most expensive.
• Silver Arowana (Osteoglossum bicirrhosum): Native to South America, these Arowanas are known for their striking silver scales and are more affordable than their Asian counterparts.
• Jardini Arowana (Scleropages jardinii): A native of Australia, these Arowanas have darker coloration with a more aggressive temperament compared to the others.
• Black Arowana (Osteoglossum ferreirai): Found in South America, these Arowanas have a deep, almost black color, making them an intriguing and less common option.

Understanding the differences in species will help you choose the Arowana that suits your aquarium and personal preference.

 

Ensure You Have the Right Tank Size

Arowana for sale are large, active fish that require a spacious tank to thrive. While young Arowanas can be kept in smaller tanks, they quickly outgrow them. As adults, Arowanas can reach lengths of 3 feet or more, so you’ll need a tank that can accommodate their growth.

• Recommended tank size for a juvenile Arowana: At least 75 gallons.
• Adult tank size: Minimum of 150 gallons to provide ample swimming space.

A larger tank not only supports their size but also ensures better water quality, which is essential for their health. Arowanas are sensitive to poor water conditions, so a spacious tank will help maintain stable parameters.

3. Check Water Quality and Parameters

Before buying an Arowana, it’s crucial to understand the water parameters they require. Arowanas are sensitive to changes in water quality, and maintaining the right conditions is key to their survival. Here are the essential water parameters for Arowanas:

• Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
• pH level: 6.5 to 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
• Hardness: Soft to medium water hardness (4-15 dGH)
• Ammonia and nitrite levels: 0 ppm
• Nitrate levels: Below 20 ppm

Before buying your Arowana, make sure your tank’s filtration system is strong enough to keep up with the needs of a large fish. Regular water changes and monitoring are crucial to keep water parameters stable.

 

Choose a Healthy Arowana

When purchasing an Arowana, it’s vital to choose a healthy specimen. Healthy Arowanas are active, have bright, vibrant scales, and swim gracefully. Avoid fish that appear lethargic, have faded or damaged scales, or exhibit signs of illness, such as clamped fins or irregular swimming patterns.

Look for the following signs of a healthy Arowana:

• Bright and shiny scales.
• Clear, bright eyes.
• Active swimming behavior.
• No visible signs of disease, such as lesions, fin rot, or parasites.
• Full, symmetrical body without deformities.

Also, inquire about the Arowana’s feeding habits and past care to ensure you are getting a well-cared-for fish.

 

Prepare for the Long-Term Commitment

Arowanas are long-lived fish that require careful, long-term care. Depending on the species, Arowanas can live anywhere from 10 to 20 years in captivity with proper care. This makes them a significant commitment, as they will need a stable and suitable environment for many years.

Ensure you have the time, resources, and commitment to care for an Arowana before making the purchase. This includes providing regular maintenance for the tank, monitoring water conditions, and meeting their dietary needs. Arowanas are also known for their intelligence and can become quite attached to their owners, so be prepared for an engaging and long-term relationship with your fish.

 

Consider Tankmates Carefully

Arowanas are often best kept alone or with other large, peaceful fish. Due to their size, they can be aggressive toward smaller fish, which may be seen as prey. When selecting tankmates, avoid any species that are small enough to be seen as food.

Suitable tankmates for an Arowana include:

• Larger, peaceful species such as other large cichlids, catfish, or even other Arowanas of the same species.
• Species that are not overly territorial or aggressive.

Avoid keeping Arowanas with fish that are too small or slow-moving, as they may become stressed or eaten. You should also avoid keeping them with overly aggressive fish that might compete for space or food.

 

Prepare for Special Feeding Needs

Arowanas are carnivorous and require a diet rich in protein. In the wild, they primarily feed on smaller fish, insects, and crustaceans. In captivity, Arowanas can be fed a variety of high-quality foods, including live, frozen, or freeze-dried fish, shrimp, worms, and other protein-rich foods. It’s essential to provide a varied diet to ensure they receive all the necessary nutrients.

Common food options for Arowanas include:

• Live or frozen fish (such as goldfish or guppies)
• Shrimp (freshwater or saltwater)
• Earthworms or bloodworms
• Pellets designed specifically for carnivorous fish

Be cautious when feeding live food, as it can carry diseases or parasites. Pre-packaged food designed for Arowanas is generally a safer option.

Additionally, Arowanas are known to be “jumpers,” so it’s important to have a secure tank lid to prevent them from leaping out.

Conclusion

Purchasing an Arowana can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it’s important to be fully prepared. By understanding the different species, ensuring you have the right tank setup, and committing to their long-term care, you can enjoy the beauty and elegance of these majestic fish for many years to come. With the right care and attention, your Arowana will thrive and add a touch of grace and good fortune to your home.

Before making a purchase, take the time to do your research and ensure you’re ready for the responsibility that comes with owning such an impressive and long-lived fish.