Essential Tips for Keeping Arowana Fish in India for Beginners

Arowana fish are prized for their striking appearance and graceful swimming. In India, many aquarium enthusiasts dream of keeping these majestic fish, but beginners often face challenges due to the species' specific needs. This guide offers clear, practical advice to help you start your journey with Arowana fish confidently and successfully.

Arowana fish swimming in a well-maintained aquarium

Choosing the Right Arowana Species

Arowanas come in several varieties, each with unique colors and care requirements. In India, the most common types are:

• Asian Arowana: Known for its metallic sheen and cultural significance, but it requires special permits due to its protected status.

• Silver Arowana: Larger and more affordable, it is easier to care for and widely available.

• Golden Arowana: Popular for its bright golden scales, but it needs a stable environment to thrive.

  
  

For beginners, the Silver Arowana is often the best choice because it adapts well to captivity and is less expensive.

Setting Up the Aquarium

Arowanas grow quickly and can reach up to 3 feet in length, so their tank must be spacious.

• Tank size: Minimum 150 gallons (570 liters) for a single adult Arowana.

• Tank shape: Long and wide tanks are better than tall ones to accommodate their horizontal swimming.

• Filtration: Use a powerful filter to maintain clean water, as Arowanas produce a lot of waste.

• Water parameters: Keep temperature between 24°C and 30°C, pH around 6.5 to 7.5, and hardness low to moderate.

• Tank cover: Arowanas are strong jumpers, so a secure lid is essential to prevent escapes.

  
  

Adding driftwood or smooth rocks can create hiding spots, but avoid sharp decorations that might injure the fish.

Feeding Your Arowana

Arowanas are carnivores with a strong appetite for live or frozen food. Feeding them the right diet is crucial for their health and coloration.

• Diet options: Live feeder fish, shrimp, crickets, and specially formulated pellets.

• Feeding frequency: Juveniles need feeding twice daily, adults once a day or every other day.

• Avoid overfeeding: Excess food pollutes the water and can cause health problems.

  
  

In India, sourcing live food can be challenging, so frozen or pellet options are practical alternatives.

Arowana fish feeding on live feeder fish in a home aquarium

Maintaining Water Quality

Water quality directly affects Arowana health. Regular maintenance keeps your fish vibrant and active.

• Water changes: Replace 20-30% of the water weekly to remove toxins.

• Testing: Use water test kits to monitor ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, pH, and temperature.

• Aeration: Ensure good oxygen levels with air pumps or surface agitation.

• Avoid chemicals: Use aquarium-safe conditioners to remove chlorine and chloramine from tap water.

  
  

In India, water quality can vary, so investing in a good filtration system and regular testing is essential.

Understanding Arowana Behavior

Arowanas are territorial and can be aggressive, especially in smaller tanks or when kept with incompatible species.

• Tank mates: Choose large, robust fish like Oscars or large catfish that can coexist without stress.

• Signs of stress: Loss of appetite, hiding, or erratic swimming indicate problems.

• Handling: Avoid frequent handling or sudden movements around the tank.

  
  

Providing enough space and hiding spots reduces aggression and helps your Arowana feel secure.

Large Arowana fish swimming peacefully in a spacious aquarium

Legal Considerations in India

The Asian Arowana is protected under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and requires special permits for ownership. Always check local regulations before purchasing.

• Permits: Obtain necessary documents if you plan to keep protected species.

• Source responsibly: Buy from licensed breeders or dealers to avoid illegal trade.

  
  

Following legal guidelines ensures you contribute to conservation efforts and avoid penalties.

Final Thoughts on Keeping Arowanas in India

Starting with the right species, providing a large and clean tank, feeding a balanced diet, and understanding your fish’s behavior are key to success. Regular maintenance and legal compliance protect both your investment and the species.

If you are ready to welcome an Arowana into your home, prepare carefully and enjoy the rewarding experience of watching this elegant fish thrive. Begin with research, invest in quality equipment, and connect with local aquarium communities for ongoing support.