African Arowana

How To Care African Arowana

The African Arowana (Heterotis niloticus) is a majestic and large species of freshwater fish native to several parts of Africa, including the Nile River and other large lakes and rivers. Known for its streamlined body and metallic sheen, it is an awe-inspiring species prized by aquarists who have the space and experience to care for them. Despite being less common than their South American counterparts, African Arowanas are highly regarded for their beauty and unique behavior.

The African Arowana is a large, elongated fish with an impressive, sleek body. It is characterized by its long pectoral fins, which resemble wings, and its large, rounded head with a prominent mouth. The fish’s scales have a metallic sheen that gives it a silver or gold-like appearance. Their eyes are large and positioned toward the top of their head, and they possess long, flowing fins, which are especially pronounced in mature individuals.

Arowanas are known for their ability to jump out of the water, often leaping several feet above the surface in their natural habitats. This behavior is a natural trait that is often exhibited in well-maintained aquariums as well. As they grow, African Arowanas can reach sizes of up to 4 feet (120 cm), making them an impressive centerpiece fish in any aquarium.

African Arowanas are predatory fish that are primarily surface feeders. In the wild, they hunt small fish, insects, and other creatures that come close to the water's surface. They use their sharp eyesight and powerful leap to capture prey. In an aquarium, they are often seen patrolling the top layers of the tank, using their long fins and keen sense of sight to locate food.

While they are not aggressive toward other fish, their large size and predatory nature make them unsuitable for tanks with small or slow-moving species. African Arowanas tend to be solitary, and it's often recommended to keep them in tanks where they are the dominant species. Their territorial nature means that they may not do well with other fish that compete for space or food.

In the wild, African Arowanas inhabit slow-moving rivers, lakes, and floodplains, where they hunt prey near the water's surface. In captivity, they require a large tank with plenty of open swimming space, as they are active and powerful swimmers. A minimum tank size of 250 gallons (946 liters) is necessary to accommodate their size and active nature.

The tank should have a secure lid, as African Arowanas are known to jump out of the water. They prefer water with a pH of 6.0-7.5, a temperature range of 75-82°F (24-28°C), and a hardness of 5-15 dGH. Since they are surface feeders, it’s important to keep the upper levels of the tank clear and allow for plenty of swimming room. A well-maintained filtration system is essential to maintain water quality, especially as African Arowanas produce a large amount of waste.

African Arowanas are carnivorous and require a high-protein diet to thrive. In their natural environment, they primarily feed on smaller fish, insects, and crustaceans. In captivity, they should be provided with a varied diet of live or frozen foods such as fish, shrimp, and insects like crickets or mealworms. They may also accept high-quality pellets or frozen fish fillets. A varied diet ensures they get the essential nutrients they need to stay healthy.

• Provide a very large tank (at least 250 gallons) with secure covering to prevent jumping.
• Offer a diet rich in protein, including live or frozen foods such as fish, shrimp, and insects.
• Keep them with larger, non-aggressive species to prevent territorial disputes.
• Make sure the tank has a strong filtration system and perform regular water changes to maintain high water quality.
• Avoid keeping with small fish or slow-moving species, as the Arowana may view them as prey.

With proper care, the African Arowana can live for 15-20 years. They are slow to mature, and while they can grow rapidly during their early years, they typically reach their full adult size of 3-4 feet (90-120 cm) after several years. Their long lifespan and size make them a significant commitment, but with the right environment, they can live a long and healthy life.

The African Arowana is a magnificent fish that requires significant care and attention, particularly regarding tank size and diet. If you have the space and resources to accommodate them, they make a stunning and captivating addition to a large aquarium.