Asian Arowana – Scleropages formosus

The Asian Arowana, Scleropages formosus, is one of the most iconic freshwater fish kept in home aquariums. Admired for its metallic sheen, powerful swimming style and almost prehistoric body shape, this species has become a symbol of prestige among aquarists. At the same time it is a demanding fish that requires space, advanced filtration and long‑term commitment. For hobbyists ready to take on the challenge, MB Store provides high‑quality aquariums, stands and technical equipment that form a solid foundation for responsible Arowana keeping.

Natural habitat, biology and colour varieties

The Asian Arowana originates from slow‑flowing forest rivers, blackwater swamps and floodplains of Southeast Asia. It can be found in Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam and parts of Myanmar and Laos. These waters are typically warm, soft and slightly acidic, often shaded by dense rainforest canopy. Fallen leaves, roots and branches create a maze in which the Arowana patrols the upper water layers. Understanding this natural environment is key to designing an aquarium that supports the fish’s health and natural behaviour.

This species can reach 60–90 cm in length, with a long, muscular body covered by large, reflective scales. The dorsal and anal fins run far back to meet the tail, giving the fish a smooth, serpentine silhouette. The distinctive upturned mouth and paired barbels are adaptations for feeding at the surface. In nature, the Asian Arowana hunts insects, small fish, amphibians and even small terrestrial animals that fall into the water, leaping impressively from the surface when necessary.

There are several well‑known colour varieties cultivated in aquaculture. The Red Arowana (often called Super Red) has an intense red or orange body and fins. The Golden Arowana displays a brilliant metallic gold, sometimes with darker edging on the scales. Green and Yellow Tail Arowanas show more subdued colours but are no less elegant. Each variety has slightly different price and availability, but all require similar water conditions and care. Regardless of colour, the fish’s status as a protected species means that any specimen in trade must come from legal, documented breeding farms.

From a biological standpoint, Asian Arowana is a classic surface predator with strong territorial instincts. It uses excellent eyesight and rapid acceleration to capture prey. Its labyrinth‑like swimming near the surface is not only a hunting strategy but also a way to inspect its territory. In captivity, these instincts remain very strong, influencing tank design, choice of tankmates and feeding strategy. Understanding the fish’s behaviour helps avoid stress, injuries and conflicts with other inhabitants.

Legal status and responsible acquisition

Asian Arowana is listed on CITES Appendix I, which means it is a globally protected species. Wild specimens are strictly protected, and legal trade is allowed only for fish bred in certified farms. Every legally sold Arowana should have a microchip, documentation of origin and a unique certificate. When choosing a fish, the aquarist must be absolutely certain that it comes from a legal source; this is both an ethical and a legal obligation.

Many countries have additional national regulations regarding import, sale and possession of Asian Arowanas. Before purchasing a specimen, it is crucial to check current local laws and any requirements for permits or registration. Some regions restrict certain colour varieties, sizes or even completely prohibit private ownership. Ignoring these rules may result in confiscation of the fish and serious legal consequences, so preparation and research are essential for any enthusiast considering this species.

Responsible acquisition also involves assessing the long‑term commitment. Asian Arowanas can live 15–20 years, and their final size demands very large aquariums. A juvenile fish may look small and manageable, but it will quickly outgrow modest tanks. Buying a young specimen without a realistic plan for a large, robust aquarium is not fair to the animal. MB Store helps aquarists plan appropriately by offering custom and standard aquariums, filtered systems and additional aquarium equipment suitable for large predatory fish.

Another aspect of responsibility is transport and acclimation. Arowanas are easily stressed by handling and can injure themselves by panicking in a bag or small container. Professional sellers use spacious bags, pure oxygen and darkened packaging to calm the fish during transport. At home, careful temperature equalisation, slow mixing of tank water into the transport bag, and dim lighting help reduce the shock of relocation. Skipping these steps may lead to infections, appetite loss or even death of the new specimen.

Aquarium size, layout and technical equipment

Given its final size and activity level, the Asian Arowana must be housed in a very spacious aquarium. For a single adult, the practical minimum is around 700–1000 litres, with a length of at least 180–200 cm and a width of 70–80 cm. Greater width and length are always beneficial, because they allow the fish to turn comfortably and swim in straight lines. Height is less critical than footprint, but a tall tank provides additional water volume and visual impact. MB Store offers large aquariums and strong stands that can safely support the weight and dimensions required by this demanding species.

The aquarium should be tightly covered, because Arowanas are notorious jumpers. Even a seemingly calm fish can suddenly leap when startled by light, shadow or movement in the room. A solid cover glass or lid, well secured and with openings only for cables and hoses, is essential. Leaving any gap near the back or sides is risky; many tragedies in Arowana keeping are caused by fish that jumped out through small openings. A well‑fitted cover also helps maintain stable temperature and reduces evaporation.

Filtration must be powerful and reliable. Asian Arowanas are large carnivores that produce substantial amounts of waste, so biological filtration capacity should be generous. Sump systems, large canister filters or combinations of both are commonly used. The goal is not only to remove visible debris but also to maintain stable levels of ammonia, nitrite and nitrate. A well‑designed filter provides strong oxygenation and circulation without creating excessively turbulent flow at the surface, where the Arowana prefers to swim.

Heating is another critical element. The optimal temperature range for Scleropages formosus is about 26–30°C, depending on variety and local conditions. Using two slightly under‑sized heaters instead of one large unit adds redundancy: if one fails, the other still provides some heat. A reliable thermometer or electronic controller lets the aquarist monitor temperature precisely. MB Store supplies heaters, thermometers, external filters and other technical components, allowing hobbyists to build safe and efficient systems tailored to their specific space.

Lighting can be relatively modest, especially if the tank is sparsely planted. Arowanas appreciate dimmer conditions reminiscent of forest rivers, and overly intense light may stress them or encourage them to jump. Many keepers choose LED fixtures with adjustable intensity and spectrum, enhancing the metallic shine and colour depth of the fish without causing glare. Decorative lighting that highlights the front and central part of the tank while leaving the back slightly darker often gives the Arowana a sense of security.

Water parameters and maintenance routines

In nature, Asian Arowanas inhabit soft, slightly acidic waters. In captivity they are relatively adaptable, but stable, high‑quality water is critical. A pH between 6.0 and 7.2 is generally recommended, with low to moderate general hardness. Some keepers use peat, catappa leaves or driftwood to introduce tannins and slightly acidify the water, which can also provide mild antibacterial effects. Frequent testing with reliable liquid test kits helps track trends and avoid sudden shifts that might stress the fish.

Routine maintenance must be consistent and disciplined. Large predatory fish excrete considerable nitrogen compounds, so weekly water changes of 25–40% are standard practice. For heavily stocked tanks, even more frequent changes may be advisable. Siphoning detritus from the bottom, especially behind decorations and near filter inlets, prevents the buildup of organic waste. At the same time, cleaning the filter media should be done carefully and not too often, in order to preserve beneficial bacterial populations.

Temperature stability is particularly important for Arowanas. Sudden drops or rises of more than 2°C in a short period can result in stress, suppressed immunity and vulnerability to parasites or bacterial infections. During water changes, pre‑warming replacement water to match the tank temperature is a good habit. In cold climates, insulating the aquarium sides or using covers can reduce heat loss. Arowanas often react visibly to temperature fluctuations, becoming less active or hiding when something is not quite right.

Good water quality also involves controlling dissolved oxygen and avoiding accumulation of harmful gases. A combination of surface movement, aeration and efficient filtration usually provides enough oxygen for an adult Arowana. However, overcrowded tanks or closed rooms with poor air exchange can lead to low oxygen levels, especially at night. Observing the fish’s breathing, gill movement and behaviour at the surface can alert the aquarist to subtle problems before they escalate. Preventive maintenance remains the most effective way to keep the fish healthy in the long term.

Diet, feeding strategy and nutrition

Feeding Asian Arowanas is both a pleasure and a responsibility. As predators, they show spectacular hunting behaviour, but their diet must be carefully balanced to avoid obesity, vitamin deficiencies and organ problems. In captivity, a varied diet based on high‑quality pellets supplemented with frozen and occasional live foods is recommended. Specialized carnivore pellets are often formulated to support growth, immune function and colour development in large fish.

Common food items include shrimp, pieces of fish, insects, crickets, mealworms and sometimes small crustaceans. These can be offered frozen and thawed or, less frequently, live. It is wise to avoid feeder fish from uncertain sources, as they may introduce parasites or diseases. Overreliance on fatty meats such as beef heart or mammalian organs can lead to liver problems, since the Arowana’s digestive system evolved to process aquatic and insect prey rather than terrestrial animal fat.

Feeding frequency depends on age and size. Juveniles may be fed two to three times per day in small portions to support growth, while sub‑adult and adult fish usually require one feeding per day or even every second day. The key is to offer enough food to maintain good body condition without swelling the abdomen excessively or leaving uneaten pieces in the tank. Observing the fish’s body line, behaviour and appetite helps fine‑tune the quantity over time.

Some keepers like to train Arowanas to accept food directly from tweezers or by hand. While this can strengthen the bond between owner and fish, caution is necessary. Arowanas strike with great speed, and accidental bites can be painful. Moreover, encouraging the fish to attack the surface aggressively during feeding increases the risk of jaw or head injuries. A measured, calm feeding routine, with food offered at different spots near the surface, tends to be safer and helps prevent competition if there are tankmates present.

Tankmates, compatibility and behaviour

Asian Arowanas are usually kept either alone or with carefully selected tankmates. Their natural behaviour as territorial surface predators means that smaller fish are often viewed as prey. Any companion must be too large to swallow and robust enough to handle occasional displays of dominance. Even then, there is always some risk, because individuals vary widely in temperament. Some Arowanas tolerate other fish well, while others become extremely aggressive as they mature.

Potential tankmates include larger catfish, peaceful cichlids of appropriate size and robust bottom dwellers that occupy different levels of the tank. Species that compete for the surface zone or are very colourful and fast may provoke chasing and fin damage. When combining species, the aquarium must be considerably larger than the minimum required for the Arowana alone, providing visual barriers, open swimming space and multiple retreat areas.

Keeping more than one Asian Arowana in a single tank is rarely successful in the long term unless the aquarium is extremely large and the group has been carefully managed from a young age. Territorial disputes can escalate into serious injuries, including torn fins, damaged scales and barbel loss. Breeding groups maintained by farms use ponds and advanced management strategies that are difficult to replicate at home. For most hobbyists, a single specimen aquarium offers the best balance between welfare and visual impact.

Behaviourally, Asian Arowana is intelligent and responsive to its environment. It quickly learns to associate the aquarist with food, approaches the glass and may even follow movement around the room. At the same time, sudden shadows, knocks on the glass or loud vibrations can cause panic reactions. Minimising external stressors, using a background on the rear glass and providing consistent lighting and daily routine help the fish feel secure. A calm, confident Arowana displays elegant, unhurried swimming and broad, controlled turns.

Health issues, prevention and observation

Like all aquarium fish, Asian Arowanas are vulnerable to diseases, but many problems can be prevented through proper conditions and careful observation. The most common issues include external parasites, bacterial infections, fin rot, fungal growths and injuries from jumping or collisions. Early detection greatly increases the chances of successful treatment, so the aquarist should make a habit of inspecting the fish daily for changes in colour, scale condition, fin integrity and breathing rate.

Poor water quality is the root cause of many ailments. Elevated ammonia, nitrite or nitrate weaken the immune system, opening the door to opportunistic bacteria and parasites. Regular testing and water changes remain the best line of defence. Overfeeding and leftover food can quickly degrade water, especially in large predatory fish tanks. Diet management is therefore as important as filtration when it comes to disease prevention.

Injuries are a particular concern in Arowanas. Frightened fish may crash into the glass, decorations or the cover, damaging their jaw, barbels or scales. Using rounded decorations, avoiding sharp rocks and ensuring a secure yet cushioned cover can reduce these risks. Some keepers line the inside of the lid with soft material where the fish might strike. If an injury occurs, pristine water conditions and minimal stress are essential to support healing.

Quarantine is recommended for any new tankmates or biological materials such as plants from tanks with fish. Although many Arowana aquariums are species‑only, cross‑contamination from other systems can still happen via nets, hoses or hands. Dedicated equipment and good hygiene practices are valuable tools for keeping pathogens out. When treatment is necessary, choosing medications safe for large, sensitive fish and carefully following dosage guidelines is crucial.

Equipment and solutions from MB Store

Successfully keeping Asian Arowanas depends not only on knowledge and dedication, but also on reliable hardware. MB Store specialises in providing aquariums, stands and filtration systems capable of meeting the needs of large predatory fish. Customers can choose from standard size tanks or consult about custom dimensions that fit a specific room or niche. Solid construction, appropriate glass thickness and sturdy supports are fundamental for tanks holding several hundred litres of water.

In addition to aquariums themselves, MB Store offers a wide range of technical accessories: powerful external filters, internal circulation pumps, heaters, LED lighting systems and covers. For Arowana keepers, combinations of large filters with ample biological media, efficient heaters and adjustable lights are particularly valuable. With the right equipment, maintaining stable temperature, clear water and appropriate oxygen levels becomes much easier, leaving the aquarist free to focus on observation and interaction.

Decor elements, backgrounds and substrate available in the store allow aquarists to create a display that is both aesthetically pleasing and comfortable for the fish. Smooth roots, large stones without sharp edges and carefully designed hiding places for tankmates help reduce injuries and stress. Subtle, dark substrates often emphasise the metallic glow of the Arowana, while avoiding reflections that might startle the fish.

MB Store staff follow trends and best practices in aquaristics, which is especially important with challenging species such as Asian Arowana. By combining quality aquariums, robust equipment and professional advice, the store supports hobbyists at every stage: from planning and setup to long‑term care and problem solving. This approach helps ensure that the decision to keep such a remarkable fish is backed by real capability to provide a safe, stable home.

Ethics, commitment and long‑term perspective

Owning an Asian Arowana is often seen as a status symbol, but from an ethical perspective it is primarily a serious responsibility. The fish’s long lifespan, large size and complex needs mean that the decision to purchase one should never be impulsive. Prospective owners must realistically assess the cost of equipment, electricity, food and potential veterinary care, as well as the physical space available in their home. The welfare of the fish should always come before fashion or prestige.

Arowana keeping can be profoundly rewarding. Watching a healthy, confident specimen glide through a spacious, well‑designed aquarium is a unique experience, different from keeping smaller community fish. Over time, many aquarists develop a strong bond with their fish, recognising subtle variations in behaviour and mood. This deeper relationship often motivates them to continue improving equipment, husbandry and knowledge, raising standards in the hobby as a whole.

From a conservation standpoint, supporting legal, certified breeding programmes is crucial. By choosing farm‑bred fish with proper documentation, aquarists help reduce pressure on wild populations and encourage responsible aquaculture. Education about CITES regulations, habitat loss and sustainable practices can turn each Arowana owner into an informal ambassador for freshwater conservation more broadly.

Ultimately, the story of Scleropages formosus in the aquarium hobby is a story of balance: between admiration and responsibility, beauty and ethics, ambition and realistic capability. With proper planning, high‑quality equipment from suppliers such as MB Store and a commitment to continuous learning, it is possible to offer this extraordinary fish a life that is not only visually impressive but truly respectful of its nature.

FAQ

How big of an aquarium does an Asian Arowana really need?
An adult Asian Arowana should be kept in an aquarium of at least 700–1000 litres, with a length of 180–200 cm or more. The width is also critical, as the fish must be able to turn easily; 70–80 cm is a sensible minimum. Larger tanks provide better stability, more swimming space and reduce stress, so many experienced keepers aim above the absolute minimum.

Can Asian Arowanas live with other fish?
They can, but tankmates must be carefully selected and the aquarium volume increased. Suitable companions are large, robust species that do not fit into the Arowana’s mouth and prefer different water levels. Even then, there is always some risk of aggression or injury, since individual temperaments differ. Many aquarists ultimately choose a species‑only setup for safety and simplicity.

What do Asian Arowanas eat in captivity?
In aquariums, Arowanas should receive a varied diet based mainly on high‑quality carnivore pellets, supplemented with frozen shrimps, fish pieces, insects and similar foods. Occasional live prey can be offered, but it must be parasite‑free and not overused. Avoid fatty mammal meats and unreliable feeder fish. Balanced nutrition helps maintain colour, growth and organ health in the long term.

Are Asian Arowanas difficult to keep for beginners?
Yes, they are generally unsuitable for beginners. Their large size, long lifespan, legal status and sensitivity to poor conditions demand experience with water chemistry, filtration and disease prevention. Arowanas also require significant financial investment and space. It is better for new aquarists to gain practice with less demanding species before considering this challenging and prestigious fish.

What equipment is essential for an Arowana aquarium?
Key items include a large, solid aquarium, a strong stand, efficient biological filtration, reliable heaters with backup, a tight cover to prevent jumping and suitable lighting. Additional circulation pumps, test kits and thermostatic controllers are highly recommended. MB Store offers aquariums and technical accessories that help build a stable, safe environment tailored specifically to the needs of Asian Arowanas.