Arowana fish, often regarded as a symbol of prosperity and good fortune, are among the most sought-after freshwater fish for aquarium enthusiasts. Due to their size, behavior, and specific care needs, setting up the perfect aquarium for Arowana fish requires careful planning. This guide will walk you through all the essential steps to create an optimal environment for your Arowana.

1. Choosing the Right Tank

Arowanas are large fish that require ample swimming space. A minimum tank size of 250 gallons is recommended for juvenile Arowanas, while adults may require 400 gallons or more. The tank should be long and wide, rather than tall, to accommodate their swimming patterns.

2. Setting Up the Filtration System

Arowana for sale produce a significant amount of waste, making an efficient filtration system crucial. A canister filter or sump filter is highly recommended to ensure proper mechanical, biological, and chemical filtration. The filter should be capable of cycling at least 4-5 times the tank’s volume per hour to maintain water quality.

3. Water Parameters for Arowanas

Arowanas thrive in specific water conditions. Maintain the following parameters for optimal health:

  • Temperature: 75-86°F (24-30°C)
  • pH Level: 6.5-7.5
  • Ammonia & Nitrites: 0 ppm
  • Nitrate Levels: Below 20 ppm Regular water changes (20-30% weekly) are necessary to prevent toxin buildup.

4. Tank Decorations and Substrate

Arowanas prefer a minimalistic tank setup to avoid injuries. Opt for:

  • Fine sand or bare-bottom tank (easy to clean)
  • Driftwood and floating plants (for a natural feel)
  • Avoid sharp rocks or decorations (risk of injury)

5. Lighting and Cover

Arowanas are jumpers and can leap several feet out of water. Secure your tank with a sturdy lid. For lighting, use soft LED lights that mimic natural daylight. Avoid excessive brightness as it can stress the fish.

6. Choosing Tank Mates

Arowanas are territorial, so choosing suitable tank mates is essential. Ideal companions include:

  • Stingrays
  • Large Plecos
  • Clown Knifefish
  • Bichirs Avoid smaller or aggressive fish that could become prey or stress the Arowana.

7. Feeding Your Arowana

Arowanas are carnivorous and require a high-protein diet. Feed them a mix of:

  • Live food: Crickets, mealworms, small fish
  • Frozen food: Shrimp, bloodworms
  • Pellets: High-quality Arowana pellets Feed young Arowanas twice a day and adults once a day in controlled portions.

8. Monitoring Arowana Health

Arowanas are prone to common health issues like drop eye, fin rot, and swim bladder disorders. Maintain water quality, provide a balanced diet, and monitor their behavior for signs of stress or illness.

9. Acclimating Your Arowana

When introducing an Arowana to its new home, use the drip acclimation method. Slowly adjust the fish to the new water conditions over 30-60 minutes to reduce stress.

10. Regular Maintenance Routine

To keep your Arowana tank in top condition:

  • Perform weekly water changes (20-30%)
  • Clean the filter monthly
  • Monitor water parameters regularly
  • Inspect for any fish health concerns

Final Thoughts

Creating the perfect aquarium for an Arowana fish requires dedication, but the reward of owning a healthy, vibrant fish is worth the effort. With proper tank setup, water conditions, and regular maintenance, your Arowana can thrive for many years, adding beauty and prestige to your aquarium.