How Much Space Does an Arowana Really Need?
How much room does an arowana need? At minimum, an adult arowana requires a tank of 250 gallons, but 300 gallons or more is highly recommended to ensure its health, growth, and well-being, considering their adult size of 2-3 feet.
Understanding the Arowana and Its Needs
Arowanas are magnificent, prehistoric-looking fish prized by aquarium enthusiasts. Native to South America, Asia, Australia, and Africa, they are also known as dragon fish because of their resemblance to mythical dragons and are often associated with prosperity and good luck. However, their impressive size and active nature necessitate a spacious aquarium to thrive. Understanding their specific needs is crucial for responsible ownership.
Factors Influencing Tank Size Requirements
Several factors influence the ideal tank size for an arowana:
- Species: Different arowana species can vary slightly in size. Silver Arowanas are the most common in the aquarium trade and grow to around 3 feet. Other species, like the Asian Arowana, may have slight variations.
- Growth Rate: Arowanas grow rapidly, especially in their first year. Expect significant growth, requiring upgrades to a larger tank as they mature.
- Activity Level: These fish are active swimmers. They need ample space to turn around comfortably and exhibit their natural swimming behavior.
- Tankmates: Adding tankmates necessitates an even larger tank. Arowanas are generally solitary but can coexist with specific species if given adequate space.
- Water Quality: Larger tanks offer more stable water parameters, which are vital for an arowana’s health.
The Minimum Tank Size: 250 Gallons – A Critical Assessment
While 250 gallons is often cited as the absolute minimum for an adult arowana, this should be viewed cautiously. This size may suffice for a single, fully-grown adult if meticulously maintained and provides sufficient swimming space. However, a tank this size offers little margin for error regarding water quality, can restrict the fish’s natural movement, and limits the possibility of adding tankmates.
Why Bigger is Always Better: 300+ Gallons and Beyond
Opting for a tank of 300 gallons or larger provides significant advantages:
- Improved Water Quality: Larger water volume translates to more stable water parameters, reducing the stress on the fish.
- Increased Swimming Space: More room allows the arowana to swim more naturally and reduces the risk of injury.
- Potential for Tankmates: A larger tank enables the possibility of keeping compatible tankmates, enriching the aquarium environment.
- Enhanced Aesthetics: A larger tank allows for more impressive aquascaping and provides a more visually stunning display.
- Better Growth: More space often correlates with better growth rates and overall health.
Tank Dimensions: Length is Key
While volume is essential, the tank’s length is paramount. Arowanas need a long, rectangular tank to accommodate their swimming habits. The minimum recommended length is 8 feet (96 inches), and a width and height of 30 inches is common. Deeper tanks allow for more three-dimensional swimming and a more natural habitat.
Arowana Tank Setup: Important Considerations
Beyond size, several factors influence arowana well-being:
- Filtration: Powerful filtration is essential to maintain pristine water quality. Over-filtration is highly recommended. Consider using a combination of canister filters, sumps, and UV sterilizers.
- Water Changes: Regular water changes (25-50% weekly) are crucial for removing nitrates and replenishing essential minerals.
- Substrate: A bare-bottom tank is often preferred for easier cleaning. If using a substrate, choose a fine gravel or sand that won’t trap debris.
- Decor: Provide minimal decorations to avoid obstructing swimming space. Securely anchored driftwood or large rocks can provide hiding places.
- Lighting: Arowanas don’t require intense lighting. Use subdued lighting to mimic their natural habitat and prevent algae growth.
- Lid: A tight-fitting lid is non-negotiable! Arowanas are notorious jumpers and can easily escape an open tank.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Underestimating Growth Rate: Arowanas grow very quickly. Don’t assume you can keep a juvenile in a small tank for an extended period.
- Neglecting Water Quality: Poor water quality is a major cause of illness and death in arowanas. Invest in reliable testing equipment and maintain a consistent water change schedule.
- Overcrowding: Avoid overcrowding the tank with too many fish. Arowanas require ample space to thrive.
- Incompatible Tankmates: Research potential tankmates carefully. Arowanas can be aggressive towards smaller fish or fish with long, flowing fins.
- Poor Diet: Feed a varied diet of high-quality pellets, live foods, and frozen foods to ensure optimal health and growth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How quickly does an arowana grow?
Arowanas grow very rapidly, especially in their first year. They can reach 12-18 inches within the first year if properly cared for. After that, their growth rate slows down, but they will continue to grow throughout their lives. This rapid growth is a critical factor to consider when determining how much room does an arowana need?.
Can I keep an arowana in a pond?
In suitable climates (tropical or subtropical) with warm water temperatures year-round, arowanas can be kept in outdoor ponds. However, you must ensure the pond is secure, adequately filtered, and protected from predators. In cooler climates, this is generally not possible due to the need to overwinter indoors.
What are the best tankmates for arowanas?
Suitable tankmates include large, peaceful fish that can’t fit in the arowana’s mouth. Common choices are silver dollars, large plecos, stingrays, and certain species of peaceful cichlids. Thorough research is essential before introducing any tankmates.
Are arowanas aggressive?
Arowanas can be territorial and aggressive, especially towards smaller fish or fish with long, flowing fins. Choose tankmates carefully and provide ample space to minimize aggression.
What do arowanas eat?
Arowanas are carnivores and require a diet rich in protein. They will eat a variety of foods, including high-quality pellets, live foods (crickets, mealworms), frozen foods (shrimp, bloodworms), and occasionally feeder fish. A varied diet is essential for optimal health.
How long do arowanas live?
With proper care, arowanas can live for 10-20 years or even longer in captivity. Providing adequate space and maintaining good water quality are crucial factors in their longevity.
What water parameters are ideal for arowanas?
Arowanas prefer warm, slightly acidic water. The ideal temperature is 75-86°F (24-30°C), and the pH should be between 6.0 and 7.0. Maintain stable water parameters and avoid sudden fluctuations.
What type of filter is best for an arowana tank?
A combination of filtration methods is often recommended, including canister filters, sumps, and UV sterilizers. The key is to provide powerful filtration that can handle the high bioload produced by these large fish.
Why do arowanas jump?
Arowanas are natural jumpers, both in the wild and in captivity. They may jump to catch prey, escape perceived threats, or simply out of curiosity. A secure lid is essential to prevent them from escaping the tank.
Can I keep multiple arowanas together?
Keeping multiple arowanas together is generally not recommended unless you have a very large tank (500+ gallons) and carefully select compatible individuals. They can be highly territorial and aggressive towards each other.
What are common diseases that affect arowanas?
Common diseases include bacterial infections, fungal infections, and parasite infestations. Maintaining good water quality, providing a varied diet, and quarantining new fish are essential for preventing disease.
What is the biggest arowana ever recorded?
While exact figures are difficult to verify, some arowana species, particularly the Arapaima gigas (though often confused as just “Arowana” it’s in a different family), can reach lengths of up to 10 feet in the wild. Captive arowanas typically don’t reach these sizes, but understanding their potential for significant growth underscores the importance of providing ample space, and again addressing how much room does an arowana need?.