Essential Care Tips for Keeping Arowana Fish Healthy and Happy

Arowana fish are strikingly beautiful and highly prized among aquarium enthusiasts. Their shimmering scales and graceful swimming make them a captivating centerpiece in any tank. However, keeping an Arowana healthy and happy requires more than just admiration. These fish have specific needs that must be met to thrive in captivity. This guide offers practical care tips to help you provide the best environment for your Arowana.

Arowana fish swimming gracefully in a large tank

Choosing the Right Tank

Arowanas grow quite large, often reaching up to 3 feet in length. This means they need a tank that provides ample swimming space. A tank size of at least 250 gallons is recommended for a single adult Arowana. The tank should be long and wide rather than tall, as these fish prefer horizontal swimming space.

• Use a sturdy tank with a secure lid since Arowanas are known to jump.

• Provide hiding spots with driftwood or large rocks but keep the center open for swimming.

• Ensure the tank is placed in a low-traffic area to reduce stress.

  
  

Water Quality and Filtration

Maintaining excellent water quality is critical for Arowana health. These fish are sensitive to poor water conditions, which can lead to illness.

• Keep water temperature between 75°F and 82°F (24°C to 28°C).

• Maintain pH levels between 6.5 and 7.5.

• Use a powerful filtration system capable of handling large volumes of water and biological waste.

• Perform weekly water changes of 20-30% to keep nitrate levels low.

• Test water parameters regularly using aquarium test kits.

  
  

Feeding Your Arowana

Arowanas are carnivorous and require a protein-rich diet. Feeding them the right food supports their growth, coloration, and overall health.

• Offer live or frozen foods such as shrimp, crickets, mealworms, and small fish.

• Supplement with high-quality pellets designed for carnivorous fish.

• Feed adult Arowanas once a day, providing only what they can consume within a few minutes.

• Avoid overfeeding to prevent water pollution and obesity.

  
  

Tank Mates and Social Behavior

Arowanas are territorial and can be aggressive, especially toward smaller fish. Choosing compatible tank mates requires caution.

• Suitable tank mates include large, robust fish like Oscars, large catfish, or silver dollars.

• Avoid small or slow-moving fish that could become prey.

• Monitor interactions closely and be prepared to separate fish if aggression occurs.

  
  

Arowana fish sharing tank with a large catfish

Health Monitoring and Common Issues

Regular observation helps catch health problems early. Watch for signs such as:

• Loss of appetite

• Erratic swimming or lethargy

• White spots or patches on the body

• Clamped fins or redness around the gills

  
  

Common ailments include parasitic infections, bacterial diseases, and injuries from jumping or tank decorations. Quarantine new fish before adding them to the tank to prevent disease spread.

Tank Maintenance and Environment

Keeping the tank clean and stable supports your Arowana’s well-being.

• Clean the substrate regularly to remove uneaten food and waste.

• Avoid sudden changes in water temperature or chemistry.

• Use gentle lighting to mimic natural conditions and reduce stress.

• Provide a varied environment with plants and decorations that do not have sharp edges.

  
  

Well-maintained Arowana aquarium with clean water and natural decorations