IMPERIAL DRAGON AROWANA

Introduction to Arowana Keeping

Arowanas, often called "dragon fish," are among the most majestic freshwater fish in the aquarium hobby. Native to South America, Asia, Australia, and Africa, these ancient fish require dedicated care and a significant commitment. This guide covers all aspects of arowana care, from tank setup to breeding, helping you provide the best possible environment for your fish.

Whether you're considering a Silver Arowana, a prized Asian Arowana, or a hardy Jardini, understanding their needs is crucial for success.

Tank Requirements

How big do arowana get?

Arowanas grow large – very large. In captivity:

• Asian Arowanas: 24-28 inches (60-70 cm)
• Silver Arowanas: 24-36 inches (60-90 cm)
• Black Arowanas: 24-30 inches (60-75 cm)
• Jardini Arowanas: 24 inches (60 cm)
• African Arowanas: 24-30 inches (60-75 cm)

Arowana tank size: A minimum tank size of 250 gallons is recommended for a single adult arowana, with larger tanks (300+ gallons) preferred for larger species like Silver Arowanas. The tank should be at least 8 feet long and 3 feet wide to allow adequate swimming space. Height is less critical, but a tall tank (24-30 inches) is acceptable.

A secure, heavy lid is absolutely essential – arowanas are powerful jumpers and can easily escape or injure themselves. Many hobbyists have experienced the tragedy of an arowana jumped out of tank.

Filtration and Maintenance

Arowanas produce a significant amount of waste. A high-quality canister filter or sump system rated for at least twice your tank volume is necessary. Regular water changes of 20-30% weekly are crucial to maintain water quality and prevent disease.

Arowana Water Parameters

Maintaining stable, pristine water conditions is key to arowana health. Ideal parameters:

Asian arowanas prefer slightly softer, more acidic water, while Silver arowanas are more adaptable. Always acclimate new fish slowly to avoid shock.

What do arowana eat?

Arowanas are carnivorous and require a protein-rich diet. In the wild, they eat insects, fish, and crustaceans. In captivity, offer a varied diet:

• Pellets: High-quality floating or sinking pellets formulated for carnivorous fish. These should form the staple diet.
• Live or frozen foods: Shrimp, crickets, mealworms, small fish (feeder fish), and earthworms. These provide enrichment and variety.
• Treats: Occasional offerings like krill, chopped squid, or mussels.

Feed adults 2-3 times a week, juveniles daily. Avoid fatty meats like beef heart, which can cause health issues.

Arowana tank mates

Choosing suitable tank mates is crucial. Arowanas are generally peaceful toward fish too large to be eaten, but they can be territorial. Good tank mates include:

• Freshwater stingrays (e.g., Motoro, Pearl) – they occupy different zones.
• Large catfish (e.g., Plecos, Tigrinus, Redtail catfish).
• Large cichlids (e.g., Oscars, Green Terrors, Severums).
• Other large, peaceful fish like Datnoids, Archerfish, and Gar.

Avoid small fish that will be seen as food, fin-nippers, and aggressive fish. Can you keep two arowana together? Generally not recommended unless you have a very large tank and a mated pair. Even then, fighting can occur. Most hobbyists keep a single arowana.

Arowana diseases and treatment

Arowanas are hardy but can succumb to diseases, often due to poor water quality or stress. Common issues:

Arowana dropping eye cure

Droopy eye (one or both eyes facing downward) is common in arowanas kept in tanks with high walls or when fed sinking foods. While not fatal, it affects appearance. Prevention is key: feed floating foods, keep tank walls clean, and provide swimming space. Once developed, it's difficult to reverse, though some hobbyists use specialized diets or surgical procedures.

Arowana mouth rot treatment

Mouth rot (fungal or bacterial infection) appears as white patches or lesions. Improve water quality, and treat with antifungal/antibacterial medications. In severe cases, veterinary intervention may be needed.

Other diseases

• Ich: White spots – treat with raised temperature and ich medication.
• Fin rot: Ragged fins – improve water quality and use antibacterial treatment.
• Parasites: Flukes, worms – use appropriate antiparasitic medications.

Quarantine new fish and maintain excellent water quality to prevent most diseases.

How to breed arowana

Breeding arowanas in captivity is challenging and typically requires a large pond or very large tank, a proven pair, and patience. Arowanas are mouthbrooders – the male incubates the eggs in his mouth for several weeks.

Key factors for breeding:

• A mature, compatible pair (often formed naturally).
• A very large, stress-free environment with pristine water.
• Seasonal changes (simulated rainy season) may trigger spawning.
• A high-quality diet with live foods.

If successful, the female will lay eggs, and the male will pick them up. After hatching, fry may remain in the male's mouth for protection. Browse our breeding pairs if you're interested in trying.

Asian arowana legal USA / Are arowana illegal?

Asian arowanas (Scleropages formosus) are listed under CITES Appendix I, meaning they are endangered and protected. In the United States, it is illegal to import, export, or sell wild-caught Asian arowanas without permits. However, captive-bred Asian arowanas from CITES-registered farms can be legally owned in most states, but some states (like California) have additional restrictions. Always check local laws before purchasing.

South American, Australian, and African arowanas are not protected and are legal to own without permits in most areas.