If you’re looking for a stunning and exotic fish to add to your aquarium, the Silver Arowana is an excellent choice. These fish are known for their sleek silver bodies and unique hunting abilities. However, caring for a Silver Arowana can be challenging, and it’s essential to understand their specific needs to ensure they thrive in your tank.
The Silver Arowana is a popular aquarium fish due to its unique appearance and active behavior. They require a tank of at least 250 gallons with a temperature range of 75-82°F, pH range of 6.5-7.5, and a varied diet of commercial flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods. Providing adequate hiding places and a tight-fitting lid is important as they are known to jump out of the tank.
As an owner of a Silver Arowana myself, I can attest to the joy and satisfaction of keeping these magnificent fish. However, I quickly learned that their care requires more attention than other fish species. From their feeding habits to their tank requirements, there are several factors to consider when caring for a Silver Arowana.
In this article, I will provide you with everything you need to know about Silver Arowana care. Whether you’re a seasoned fish owner or a beginner, you’ll learn how to create the perfect environment for your Silver Arowana and keep them healthy and happy for years to come.
Table of Contents
Species Summary
As an aquarist, I have always been fascinated by the Silver Arowana. This magnificent fish is a true beauty and requires special care to thrive in captivity. In this section, I will provide a brief summary of the Silver Arowana species.
Origin
The Silver Arowana is native to South America, specifically the Amazon River basin. It is found in slow-moving rivers, lakes, and flooded forests.
This fish is a popular game fish and is also kept in aquariums around the world.
Lifespan
The Silver Arowana can live up to 10-15 years in captivity with proper care.
However, in the wild, they have been known to live up to 20 years.
Appearance
The Silver Arowana is a beautiful fish with a long, slender body and large scales that shimmer in the light. It has a silver body with a slightly darker back and a distinctive black spot on the tail.
Its mouth is large and upturned, giving it a fierce appearance.
Size
The Silver Arowana can grow up to 36 inches in length, making it one of the largest freshwater fish in the world.
Growth Rate
The growth rate of the Silver Arowana is dependent on several factors, including water quality, diet, and tank size.
With proper care, they can grow up to 2 inches per month in their first year of life.
Behavior & Temperament
The Silver Arowana is a predatory fish and should not be kept with small fish or invertebrates. They are known to jump out of tanks, so a tight-fitting lid is necessary.
They are also known to be skittish and easily spooked, so a quiet and calm environment is best.
Male vs Female
It is difficult to differentiate between male and female Silver Arowanas. However, females tend to be larger and rounder than males.
Overall, the Silver Arowana is a fascinating fish that requires special care and attention. With proper care, they can be a stunning addition to any aquarium.
Personally, I have always been amazed by the Silver Arowana’s grace and beauty. One of my favorite moments was watching my Silver Arowana leap out of the water to catch its food. It was a truly remarkable sight.
Tank Setup
When it comes to setting up the perfect tank for your Silver Arowana, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind. Here are the key sub-sections to consider:
Tank Size
First and foremost, you need to make sure that your tank is big enough for your Silver Arowana to swim around in comfortably.
As a general rule of thumb, you should have at least 75 gallons of water for one adult Arowana. Keep in mind that these fish can grow up to three feet long, so you’ll need to plan accordingly.
Lighting
Next up, you’ll want to consider the lighting in your tank. Arowanas are diurnal fish, which means that they are most active during the day.
You’ll want to make sure that your tank is well-lit during the day, but not too bright. Aim for a light that is around 6500K, which will mimic natural daylight. Avoid using colored lights, as these can stress out your fish.
Filtration & Aeration
Proper filtration and aeration are crucial for the health and well-being of your Silver Arowana. These fish produce a lot of waste, so you’ll need a filter that can handle the load.
Look for a filter that can handle at least three times the amount of water in your tank per hour. You’ll also want to make sure that your tank is well-aerated, as Arowanas need plenty of oxygen to thrive.
Heater
Since Silver Arowanas are tropical fish, you’ll need to keep the water in your tank at a consistent temperature of around 78-82°F.
Make sure to invest in a high-quality heater that can maintain this temperature, and check it regularly to ensure that it is working properly.
Substrate
When it comes to substrate, Arowanas prefer a sandy bottom.
This will allow them to sift through the sand in search of food, and will also help to mimic their natural environment.
Avoid using sharp or jagged substrate, as this can injure your fish.
Decoration
While Arowanas don’t necessarily need a lot of decoration in their tank, adding a few hiding spots can help to reduce stress and provide a more natural environment.
Rocks, driftwood, and caves are all good options.
Plants
Arowanas are known for their love of live food, so it’s not recommended to keep live plants in their tank.
However, you can use fake plants to add some color and visual interest to the tank.
When setting up your Silver Arowana’s tank, it’s important to keep their needs in mind.
By providing a spacious, well-lit, and well-filtered environment, you can help to ensure that your fish thrives for years to come.
Personally, I’ve found that my Arowana loves to hide in the rocks and caves in his tank. It’s always fun to watch him dart out and grab a piece of food before retreating back into his hiding spot!
Water Quality
As an owner of Silver Arowanas, I know how important it is to maintain proper water quality. Water quality is essential for the health and well-being of your fish.
In this section, we will discuss the four main aspects of water quality: water temperature, water pH, water hardness, and water changes.
Water Temperature
The ideal water temperature for Silver Arowanas is between 75-82°F (24-28°C).
It is important to monitor the water temperature regularly to ensure that it remains within this range. Fluctuations in water temperature can cause stress and illness in your fish.
Water pH
The pH level of the water should be maintained between 6.5-7.5. Any significant changes in pH can cause stress to your fish, which can lead to illness.
It is essential to monitor the pH level regularly and make adjustments as needed.
Water Hardness
Silver Arowanas prefer slightly hard water with a range of 5-15 dH. Hardness is a measure of the mineral content in the water. If the water is too soft, it can cause health problems for your fish.
It is important to test the hardness level of the water regularly and make adjustments as needed.
Water Changes
Regular water changes are crucial to maintaining good water quality. I recommend changing 20-25% of the water every week.
This will help remove any excess waste and keep the water clean and healthy for your fish.
When changing the water, make sure to use a water conditioner to remove any harmful chemicals that may be present in the tap water.
Overall, maintaining proper water quality is essential for the health and well-being of your Silver Arowanas.
By monitoring the water temperature, pH level, hardness, and performing regular water changes, you can ensure that your fish are happy and healthy.
Tank Maintenance
Maintaining a clean and healthy tank is crucial for the well-being of your Silver Arowana. Here are a few tips on how to keep your tank in top condition:
Firstly, it’s important to regularly clean your tank. I personally do a 25% water change every week, and a thorough cleaning every month.
During a water change, I use a siphon to remove debris and waste from the gravel, and then replace the water with fresh, dechlorinated water.
During a monthly cleaning, I remove all decorations and scrub them down with a soft brush to remove any algae or buildup. I also use a glass cleaner to wipe down the sides of the tank.
Secondly, make sure your filter is working properly. A good filter will help remove waste and debris from the water, keeping it clean and clear.
I recommend checking your filter once a month to make sure it’s clean and functioning properly.
If you notice any issues, such as decreased flow or strange noises, it may be time to replace the filter media or the entire filter.
Thirdly, keep an eye on the water temperature and pH levels. Silver Arowanas prefer a temperature range of 75-82°F and a pH range of 6.5-7.5.
I use a thermometer and pH test kit to monitor these levels regularly. If the temperature or pH levels are outside of the recommended range, it can stress out your fish and lead to health issues.
Lastly, be mindful of what you’re putting into the tank. Avoid overfeeding your fish, as excess food can lead to waste buildup and poor water quality.
Also, be careful when adding new decorations or plants to the tank, as they may introduce harmful bacteria or chemicals. Always rinse new items thoroughly before adding them to the tank.
Tank Mates
Compatible Fish Species
I have found that Silver Arowanas are generally peaceful fish and can coexist with a variety of other species.
Some good tank mates for Silver Arowanas include:
- Bala Sharks
- Giant Danios
- Angelfish
- Discus Fish
- Red-tailed Catfish
These fish are all relatively peaceful and can tolerate the same water conditions as Silver Arowanas.
Incompatible Fish Species
While Silver Arowanas are generally peaceful, there are some fish species that should not be kept with them. These include:
- Small fish that can fit in the Arowana’s mouth, such as Neon Tetras or Guppies
- Aggressive fish that may bully the Arowana, such as Cichlids or Jack Dempseys
- Bottom-dwelling fish that may compete for food, such as Plecos or Corydoras
It’s important to research any potential tank mates before adding them to your Silver Arowana’s tank to ensure they are compatible.
How Many Silver Arowana Can be Kept Together
When it comes to keeping multiple Silver Arowanas together, it’s important to have a large enough tank to accommodate them.
A minimum tank size of 250 gallons is recommended for two adult Silver Arowanas.
It’s also important to ensure that each Arowana has enough space to establish its own territory and that there are plenty of hiding places to reduce aggression.
Personally, I have kept two adult Silver Arowanas together in a 300-gallon tank with no issues. They established their own territories and coexisted peacefully.
Diet
As an Arowana owner, I know how important it is to provide the right diet for these beautiful fish.
Here are some tips on what to feed, feeding frequency, and other helpful tips to ensure that your Silver Arowana stays healthy and happy.
What To Feed
Arowanas are carnivorous fish, so their diet should consist mainly of meat. They enjoy live food, such as feeder fish, shrimp, and crickets.
However, it’s essential to ensure that the live food is disease-free and of the correct size for your Arowana to avoid choking hazards.
You can also feed them frozen or freeze-dried food, such as krill, bloodworms, and brine shrimp.
Additionally, you can supplement their diet with high-quality pellets or flakes specifically designed for Arowanas.
Frequency
The frequency of feeding your Arowana depends on its age and size. Young Arowanas need to be fed twice a day, while adults can be fed once a day.
Overfeeding can lead to obesity, which can cause health problems for your fish. It’s essential to monitor their weight and adjust feeding accordingly.
Also, make sure to remove any uneaten food after feeding to avoid water contamination.
Tips
Here are some additional tips to consider when feeding your Silver Arowana:
- Provide a varied diet to ensure that your Arowana gets all the necessary nutrients
- Feed your Arowana at the same time every day to establish a routine
- Use a feeding stick to avoid getting your hands wet and to prevent the food from sinking to the bottom of the tank
- Consider adding supplements to their diet, such as vitamins and minerals, to ensure optimal health
- Monitor your Arowana’s behavior and appetite to detect any signs of illness or stress
By following these tips, you can ensure that your Silver Arowana gets the proper diet it needs to thrive.
Remember, a healthy diet is crucial to maintaining your Arowana’s health and happiness.
Common Diseases
Diseases
As an Arowana owner, I have learned that Silver Arowanas are susceptible to several diseases. Some common diseases include:
- Ich (white spot disease)
- Fin rot
- Columnaris
- Pop-eye
- Dropsy
Symptoms
It’s important to be able to recognize the symptoms of these diseases.
For example, Ich causes white spots on the fish’s body and fins.
Fin rot causes the fins to appear ragged and torn.
Columnaris causes a cotton-like growth on the fish’s body.
Pop-eye causes the eyes to bulge out, while Dropsy causes the fish to appear bloated.
Treatment
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to act quickly. There are several treatments available, including:
| Disease | Treatment |
|---|---|
| Ich | Medication containing malachite green or formalin |
| Fin rot | Antibiotics and water changes |
| Columnaris | Antibiotics and water changes |
| Pop-eye | Antibiotics and water changes |
| Dropsy | Antibiotics and water changes |
Prevention
Preventing these diseases is always better than treating them.
Here are some tips to keep your Arowana healthy:
- Maintain good water quality
- Quarantine new fish before introducing them to your tank
- Feed your Arowana a balanced diet
- Avoid overstocking your tank
- Keep stress levels low
I learned the hard way that prevention is key. When I first got my Arowana, I didn’t quarantine him before introducing him to my tank.
As a result, he developed Ich, and I had to treat him for several weeks. Since then, I’ve made sure to quarantine all new fish before introducing them to my tank.
Signs of a Healthy Silver Arowana
As an experienced silver arowana owner, I have learned that the key to keeping these beautiful fish healthy is by being able to recognize the signs of a healthy fish. Here are some things to look for:
Firstly, a healthy silver arowana will have bright and vibrant colors. The scales should be shiny and have a metallic sheen to them. The fins should also be intact and not have any signs of damage or discoloration.
Another sign of a healthy silver arowana is its behavior. A healthy fish will be active and alert, swimming around the tank and exploring its surroundings. It should also have a good appetite and be eager to eat when food is offered.
The eyes of a healthy silver arowana should be clear and bright. Cloudy or sunken eyes can be a sign of illness or stress. Additionally, the gills should be a healthy pink color and not show any signs of inflammation or discoloration.
When it comes to water quality, a healthy silver arowana requires a clean and well-maintained tank. The water should be crystal clear and free from any debris or pollutants. A healthy fish will also be able to tolerate a wide range of water parameters, including pH and temperature fluctuations.
Finally, a healthy silver arowana will have a strong immune system and be able to fight off any potential diseases or infections. Regular water changes and a balanced diet can help boost the fish’s immune system and keep it healthy and thriving.
Overall, keeping a silver arowana healthy requires careful observation and attention to detail. By recognizing the signs of a healthy fish, you can ensure that your silver arowana lives a long and happy life in your aquarium.
Personally, I always make sure to keep a close eye on my silver arowana’s behavior and appearance. I have found that by doing so, I can quickly spot any potential health issues and take action before they become a bigger problem.
Signs Your Fish is a Silver Arowana
As a proud owner of a Silver Arowana, I can tell you that they are a fascinating species to keep. However, identifying whether your fish is a Silver Arowana can sometimes be tricky. Here are some signs to look out for:
- Size: Silver Arowanas can grow up to 36 inches in length, so if your fish is smaller than that, it’s likely not a Silver Arowana.
- Color: As their name suggests, Silver Arowanas have a silver-colored body. They also have a black spot on their tail fin, which is a distinguishing feature.
- Shape: Silver Arowanas have a long, slender body shape with a slightly curved back.
- Behavior: Silver Arowanas are known for their jumping ability, so if your fish is constantly jumping out of the water, it’s likely a Silver Arowana.
If your fish meets all of these criteria, then congratulations, you have a Silver Arowana!
However, it’s important to note that not all Silver Arowanas will exhibit these characteristics all the time.
For example, their color can change depending on their environment and stress levels.
It’s always a good idea to do some research and consult with a professional if you’re unsure about the species of your fish.
In the end, proper care and attention will ensure that your Silver Arowana thrives in its environment.
Breeding
Breeding Setup
Before breeding Silver Arowanas, it is essential to set up the perfect breeding environment.
You will need to prepare a separate tank, which should be at least 200 gallons and have a pH level between 6.5-7.5.
The water temperature should be maintained at 80-82°F, and the tank should be dimly lit. You can use floating plants to create hiding places for the fish.
How To Breed
The breeding process of Silver Arowanas is quite challenging and requires patience. You will need to introduce a male and a female Arowana into the breeding tank.
The fish will need to be conditioned with a high protein diet, and the water should be changed regularly.
Once the fish have been introduced to the breeding tank, they will start to display breeding behavior.
The male will start to chase the female, and the female will lay eggs on the surface of the water.
The male will then fertilize the eggs, and the female will collect them in her mouth.
After the eggs have been fertilized, the female will hold them in her mouth for around 50-60 days.
During this time, the female will not eat, and you will need to provide her with a stress-free environment.
Care
Once the female has released the fry, you will need to remove her from the breeding tank.
The fry will need to be fed with small live foods, such as brine shrimp, and the water should be changed regularly.
The fry will also need to be kept in a separate tank until they are big enough to be introduced to the main tank.
It is essential to monitor the water quality regularly and maintain the pH level and temperature.
You should also avoid introducing any other fish into the breeding tank, as this can cause stress to the Arowanas and affect the breeding process.
Personally, I found breeding Silver Arowanas to be a challenging but rewarding experience. It requires a lot of patience and attention to detail, but seeing the fry grow into healthy adult fish is a truly satisfying experience.
Product recommendations for Silver Arowana:
- Hikari Massivore Delite – These pellets are specially formulated for large carnivorous fish like Silver Arowana, and will provide them with the essential nutrients they need.
- Omega One Freeze Dried Krill – Freeze-dried krill is a great option for feeding your Silver Arowana, as it is high in protein and other important nutrients.
- API Stress Coat Water Conditioner – This water conditioner will help to reduce stress in your aquarium, which can be especially important for sensitive fish like Silver Arowana.
- Fluval FX6 High Performance Canister Filter – This powerful filter is great for larger aquariums and can help to keep your water clean and clear, which is important for the health of your Silver Arowana.
- Eheim Jager Aquarium Thermostat Heater – A heater is essential for maintaining a consistent water temperature in your aquarium, which is important for the health of your Silver Arowana.
- API Master Test Kit – This test kit is a great way to monitor the levels of ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate in your aquarium, which can help you keep your Silver Arowana healthy.
- Hydor Koralia Nano Aquarium Circulation Pump – A circulation pump can help to keep the water in your aquarium moving, which can be important for the health of your Silver Arowana.
- Aqueon Aquarium 24-Inch Fluorescent Deluxe Black Hood – This aquarium hood is a great option for providing the proper lighting for your Silver Arowana, which is important for their health and well-being.
Conclusion
Overall, caring for a Silver Arowana can be a challenging but rewarding experience. They are fascinating fish to watch and can make great additions to your home aquarium. However, it’s important to remember that they require a lot of space, clean water, and a specific diet to thrive.
Personally, I have found that keeping a Silver Arowana has been an amazing experience. Watching them grow and develop their unique personalities has been truly rewarding. However, it’s important to note that they are not for everyone. It takes a lot of time, effort, and dedication to properly care for these fish.
If you’re considering adding a Silver Arowana to your aquarium, make sure you do your research and understand the commitment involved. With the right care and attention, these fish can live long and healthy lives, bringing joy and beauty to your home for years to come.
FAQs
As an experienced Silver Arowana owner, I have gathered a few frequently asked questions that I would like to share with you. Here are some of the most common questions:
Q: How big do Silver Arowanas get?
A: Silver Arowanas can grow up to three feet in length, so it’s important to have a large enough tank to accommodate their size.
Q: What should I feed my Silver Arowana?
A: Silver Arowanas are carnivorous and should be fed a diet of live or frozen foods such as shrimp, crickets, and small fish.
Q: How often should I clean my Silver Arowana’s tank?
A: It’s important to clean your Silver Arowana’s tank at least once a week to maintain a healthy environment for your fish.
Q: Can Silver Arowanas be kept with other fish?
A: Silver Arowanas can be aggressive towards other fish, so it’s best to keep them in a tank with fish of similar size and temperament.
Q: How can I tell if my Silver Arowana is healthy?
A: Look for signs of a healthy Silver Arowana such as bright colors, active swimming, and a healthy appetite. If you notice any changes in behavior or appearance, consult with a veterinarian.
Q: How long do Silver Arowanas live?
A: Silver Arowanas can live up to 20 years with proper care and maintenance of their tank.
Overall, owning a Silver Arowana can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to do your research and provide the necessary care for your fish to thrive. If you have any other questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional or experienced Silver Arowana owner for guidance.
Reference: Wikipedia.