🐉 Why Are Asian Arowana Illegal in the United States?

The Asian Arowana (Scleropages formosus), also called the “dragon fish”, is one of the most coveted freshwater fish in the world. Its shimmering scales, long life span, and cultural symbolism of prosperity and power make it highly sought after by collectors.

But if you live in the United States, owning one is completely illegal. Here’s why—and what alternatives you can consider.

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🚫 Endangered Species Protections

• The Asian Arowana is listed under CITES Appendix I (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species), marking it as endangered in the wild.
• U.S. law under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) makes it illegal to import, export, buy, or own this species.
• ❌ No private hobbyist has ever been approved to legally keep one—and none ever will unless the ban is lifted.

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🏛️ Zoo & Institutional Exceptions

• The only legal owners of Asian Arowana in the U.S. are zoos and accredited institutions.
• Many of the fish seen in zoos were confiscated from illegal private owners. Sometimes they are destroyed, but occasionally, they are donated for education or display.
• 📝 Special permits may be granted for non-commercial purposes, such as:
  • Scientific research
  • Educational programs
  • Conservation efforts
• ⚠️ Even with these permits, no private fishkeeper has ever received approval.

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⚠️ Smuggling Risks

Because these fish can sell for $10,000+, smuggling is a constant problem.

• ✈️ Exported illegally from Asia, often hidden with other fish.
• 🌍 Neighboring countries like Colombia are known to smuggle out fish and re-export them worldwide.
• 🛑 Smugglers may rename the fish to pass inspections or even bribe airport officials.
• 📜 CITES permits are required to import/export endangered fish like the Asian Arowana or Zebra Pleco. Some countries lack access to CITES, leading to fake permits being created.

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💻 Scam Websites & Online Fraud

Asian Arowana’s rarity also makes it a scammer’s favorite bait.

• Many websites falsely advertise cheap Asian Arowana “for sale.”
• They look convincing, with real addresses, professional language, and even fake customer reviews.
• Payment is usually requested through Zelle or PayPal Friends & Family—methods that offer no buyer protection.
• 🚨 Some scams may even be sting operations.
• ⚠️ Scammers often convince buyers by showing microchip numbers or certificates of authenticity. While those are real, they do not make the fish legal in the United States.

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🔄 Legal Alternatives to Asian Arowana

Although the dragon fish is banned, there are legal alternatives available:

• 🌊 Silver Arowana (Osteoglossum bicirrhosum) – Affordable, but needs very large tanks.
• 🌊 Black Arowana (Osteoglossum ferreirai) – Sleeker, rarer, but also space-demanding.
• 🌊 Jardini Arowana (Scleropages jardinii) – Beautiful, though highly aggressive.
• 🌊 Leichardti Arowana (Scleropages leichardti) – Australian species, less aggressive.
• 🌊 African Arowana (Heterotis niloticus) – Unique filter-feeding behavior, peaceful in large setups.

⚠️ State Laws Vary – Some states ban certain species (like Silver Arowana) due to their potential to become invasive if released into waterways. Always check your local regulations before buying.

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🐠 Final Thoughts

The Asian Arowana remains illegal in the U.S. for good reason:

• 🛑 It is an endangered species.
• 🛑 It faces smuggling and trafficking risks.
• 🛑 No private keeper has ever been legally approved to own one.

✅ The only legal owners are zoos, aquariums, and institutions with special permits.

Hobbyists looking for a dragon fish experience can turn to legal Arowana species that still provide beauty, personality, and a challenge—without breaking the law.