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Silver Arowana (Osteoglossum bicirrhosum)

Posted by Roger Ma on on 7th Apr 2014

The Silver Arowana is one of the most popular tropical fish that we sell at our store!  Whether you're an arowana enthusiasts or just a beginner fish keeper, the Silver Arowana is the hardiest of all the arowanas in the fish hobby and aren't prone to stress like the Jardini or Black/Blue Arowana.

This arowana is native to the Amazon River Basin in South America, in the waters between Brazil and Columbia.  Known to grow to a very large size in the wild, a good sized tank is needed for this gorgeous "dragonfish," as it can still get quite big in captivity.  250 gallons is preferable.  

In comparison to the Jardini or Asian Arowanas, they can be kept together and not territorial toward other arowanas like the Scleropages arowana species.  Be aware of tank mates, as they can (and will) fit smaller sized fishes into their mouth with ease.  

Water requirements aren't particularly tough but it is a good rule of thumb to keep the water conditions in pristine condition for the arowana.  Mid 70s to low 80s (Fahrenheit) is the required temperature, along with the pH being around 6.0 - 7.0.

Make sure you use a good lid that is sturdy.  These fish are known to jump very high (in the wild, it jumps out of the water to catch prey) and can knock off a tank lid that isn't secure.  

They are easy to "tame" in comparison to the other arowanas and will readily accept fish pellets.  Just make sure to feed it a varied diet so it will not "get spoiled" on one particular food.  Hai Feng Fast Color is one fish food pellet staple that the Silver Arowana loves.  Supplement it with live mealworms, live or frozen bloodworms and live feeders.

As a fish from the Jurassic period, the arowana definitely has that ancient look and has survived throughout these millions of years!  

For more tips and advice, do not hesitate to contact us!  And continue to follow us on social media and here on our blog!

Happy Fish Keeping,

Roger Ma
Pet Zone Tropical Fish - San Diego, CA