Silver Arowana - (Osteoglossum bicirrhosum)

🐟 Silver Arowana – (Osteoglossum bicirrhosum) – Majestic South American Predator

The Silver Arowana is one of the most iconic freshwater fish in the aquarium hobby, known for its long, sleek body, large metallic silver scales, and graceful, snake-like swimming motion. Native to the rivers, floodplains, and flooded forests of the Amazon and Orinoco basins, this surface-dwelling predator is famous for its ability to leap from the water to snatch prey such as insects, small fish, and even birds in the wild.

Highly sought after by large predatory fish keepers, the Silver Arowana is a powerful swimmer that demands ample space and secure tank lids to prevent jumping.

🔎 Quick Facts – Silver Arowana (Osteoglossum bicirrhosum)

• 📛 Common Names: Silver Arowana, Monkey Fish, Dragon Fish
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Osteoglossum bicirrhosum
• 🌍 Origin: South America – Amazon, Orinoco, and Rupununi River basins
• 🎨 Appearance: Long silver body, large metallic scales, upturned mouth, paired chin barbels
• 📏 Max Size: 36+ inches (91+ cm) in captivity, up to 47 inches (120 cm) in the wild
• 💎 Rarity: Common in the trade but requires expert care

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• 🐟 Predatory – will consume smaller fish and invertebrates
• 🌊 Powerful surface swimmer, often patrols upper levels of the tank
• 🛡 Can be territorial with similar-shaped fish
• ⚠️ Excellent jumper – requires a secure, weighted lid

🏠 Aquarium & Tank Requirements

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 300+ gallons (larger preferred)
• 🌊 Strong filtration with high oxygen levels
• 🪵 Open swimming space with minimal obstructions
• 💡 Moderate lighting, subdued areas for resting

💧 Water Parameters – Silver Arowana Care

• 🌡️ Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 6.0–7.5
• 💧 Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

🍽️ Diet – Carnivorous

• 🐟 Fresh or frozen fish (silversides, smelt)
• 🦐 Shrimp and prawns
• 🪱 Worms (earthworms, mealworms)
• 🦗 Insects like crickets
• 🚫 Avoid feeder fish to prevent disease

📋 Silver Arowana Care Overview Table

✨ Highlight:

• The Silver Arowana is a living dragon of the freshwater world, admired for its beauty, power, and elegance, but requires massive space and advanced care to thrive in captivity.