SILVER ARROWANA

Silver Arowana (Osteoglossum bicirrhosum) is a captivating and ancient freshwater fish known for its impressive size, striking appearance, and surface-dwelling behavior. These fish are popular among aquarists who have large tanks and are looking for a dramatic and eye-catching centerpiece. Here’s a comprehensive care guide for Silver Arowana:

Tank Size and Setup

• Tank Size: Silver Arowanas are large fish that can grow up to 3-4 feet (90-120 cm) in captivity. A minimum tank size of 250-300 gallons is recommended for a juvenile, but adults require at least 500 gallons to accommodate their size and swimming habits.
• Tank Shape: A long and wide tank is preferable over a tall one to provide ample swimming space. Arowanas are surface-dwelling fish, so ensure the tank has a large surface area.
• Aquascape: Keep decorations minimal to provide open swimming space. Use sturdy plants or artificial plants around the edges, and add large driftwood or smooth rocks to create a natural-looking environment.
• Lid: Silver Arowanas are known jumpers, so a tight-fitting, sturdy lid is essential to prevent them from leaping out of the tank.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: Silver Arowanas prefer warm water, ideally between 75-82°F (24-28°C). Use a reliable heater to maintain a stable temperature.
• pH: They thrive in slightly acidic to neutral water, with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5.
• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water is suitable, with a general hardness (GH) of 3-12 dGH.
• Water Quality: Silver Arowanas are sensitive to poor water conditions. Regular water changes (20-30% weekly) are crucial. Ensure ammonia and nitrite levels are at 0 ppm and keep nitrates below 20 ppm. Use a high-quality water conditioner to treat tap water before adding it to the tank.

Filtration and Water Flow

• Filtration: Arowanas produce a significant amount of waste, so a robust filtration system is required. Use a canister filter or sump system capable of handling large volumes of water and providing both mechanical and biological filtration.
• Water Flow: They prefer moderate water flow. Ensure the filtration creates a gentle current that does not overly disturb the surface.

Feeding

• Diet: Silver Arowanas are carnivorous and require a protein-rich diet. Feed them a variety of foods, including high-quality carnivorous pellets, live or frozen foods like shrimp, krill, and fish fillets. They may also eat insects like crickets or mealworms.
• Variety: A varied diet helps ensure they receive all necessary nutrients. Avoid feeding them only live foods to prevent dependency and potential introduction of parasites.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed juvenile Arowanas 2-3 times daily and adults once daily. Offer only as much food as they can consume in a few minutes to avoid overfeeding and water quality issues.