Silver Arowana for sale: The Majestic Freshwater Fish

The Silver Arowana for sale (Osteoglossum bicirrhosum) is a freshwater fish that captivates aquarium enthusiasts around the world. Known for its sleek, metallic appearance, graceful swimming style, and predatory instincts, this fish stands out as a prized species among hobbyists. Native to the rivers and flooded forests of South America, the Silver Arowana has earned a reputation for being an exotic, yet challenging, pet to care for.

This article will provide a comprehensive guide to Silver Arowanas, including care tips, habitat requirements, feeding habits, and where to buy Silver Arowanas online. Whether you’re a seasoned aquarist or a beginner considering this fish for your aquarium, this guide will help you understand the commitment involved in caring for this beautiful species.

 What Makes the Silver Arowana Unique?

The Silver Arowana’s uniqueness lies in both its appearance and behavior. With its elongated body, large scales, and distinct upward-facing mouth, it looks like a creature straight out of a prehistoric era. In fact, the Arowana is often referred to as a “living fossil” due to its ancient lineage, dating back to over 150 million years ago.

### Physical Characteristics

– *Size*: Silver Arowanas can grow up to 3 to 4 feet in length when kept in large, suitable environments. In the wild, they have been known to reach up to 5 feet. Their impressive size makes them a striking centerpiece in large aquariums, but also requires a lot of space for them to thrive.

– *Coloration*: Their shimmering silver scales are what give this fish its name. As they grow and mature, the iridescence of their scales becomes more prominent, reflecting light in a way that almost makes them appear like liquid silver.

– *Mouth Structure*: One of the most distinctive features of the Silver Arowana is its jaw, which opens upward. This mouth structure allows the Arowana to jump out of the water to catch prey, sometimes leaping as high as 6 feet into the air. This trait is why they are often called “monkey fish” in some regions.

### Behavior and Temperament

The Silver Arowana is a powerful predator, known for its agility and hunting skills. In its natural habitat, it preys on insects, small fish, and even small mammals or birds that come too close to the water’s surface. In captivity, it retains its predatory instincts, making it essential for owners to provide a diet that mimics what they would eat in the wild.

– *Territorial Nature*: Silver Arowanas are known to be territorial, particularly as they grow older. If you’re planning to house more than one fish in your aquarium, it’s crucial to consider their size and temperament. They can be aggressive towards smaller fish or fish of similar size, so careful tank mate selection is important.

– *Surface Dweller*: These fish prefer to swim near the surface of the water and are constantly on the lookout for food above them. Their natural behavior includes scanning the water’s surface for movement, which is why it’s important to provide enough vertical space in the tank for them to exhibit this behavior.

## Setting Up the Ideal Habitat for a Silver Arowana

One of the most important aspects of keeping a Silver Arowana healthy is providing the right environment. Due to their size and specific needs, Silver Arowanas require large, well-maintained tanks. They are not a fish for small aquariums or beginners without proper research.

### Tank Size

Because of their potential size, Silver Arowanas require a large tank—ideally starting at 250 gallons or more for a single adult fish. The tank should be long rather than tall, as Arowanas prefer to swim horizontally and need plenty of room to stretch their fins. If you’re planning to house more than one Silver Arowana or add other large fish to the tank, you’ll need an even bigger setup.

– *Minimum Tank Size*: For juveniles, a 100-150 gallon tank may suffice temporarily, but as they grow, they will quickly outgrow this space. Adult Arowanas need at least 250 gallons of water to swim comfortably.

– *Tank Shape*: A long and wide tank is preferable over a tall tank, as these fish need horizontal swimming space. Make sure there is a secure lid on the tank since Silver Arowanas are known for their ability to jump out of the water.

### Water Parameters

Maintaining the correct water parameters is essential for keeping Silver Arowanas healthy and stress-free. These fish are native to the slow-moving rivers of the Amazon basin, so it’s important to replicate their natural habitat as closely as possible.

– *Temperature*: The ideal water temperature for Silver Arowanas is between 75°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C). Use a reliable aquarium heater to keep the water at a consistent temperature, as fluctuations can stress the fish.

– *pH Levels*: Silver Arowanas prefer slightly acidic to neutral water conditions, with a pH level ranging from 6.5 to 7.5. Regular water testing is necessary to ensure stability.

– *Water Hardness*: Soft to moderately hard water is best for these fish, with a general hardness (GH) level of 4-8 dGH.

### Filtration and Water Quality

Silver Arowanas are large, messy fish that produce a significant amount of waste. A high-quality filtration system is necessary to keep the water clean and free of toxins like ammonia and nitrites. Consider using a powerful canister filter that can handle large volumes of water and provide mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration.

– *Frequent Water Changes*: Performing regular water changes (about 25% of the tank’s water every week) is crucial to maintain water quality. This helps remove excess waste and nutrients that can build up in the tank.

## Diet and Feeding Habits

As carnivores, Silver Arowanas have a diet that primarily consists of live or frozen foods. In the wild, they eat insects, small fish, amphibians, and crustaceans. In captivity, it’s essential to provide a varied diet to ensure they receive all the necessary nutrients.

### What to Feed Your Silver Arowana

– *Live Foods*: Feeder fish, shrimp, crickets, and mealworms are excellent choices for feeding Silver Arowanas. These fish enjoy hunting their prey, so live food not only meets their dietary needs but also keeps them engaged.

– *Frozen Foods*: Frozen fish, shrimp, and other seafood are great options if you’re not comfortable using live feeders. Always ensure that the food is thawed before feeding.

– *Pellets and Prepared Foods*: High-quality carnivorous fish pellets can also be included in their diet, especially if you want to balance their nutrition and ensure they receive essential vitamins and minerals.

### Feeding Schedule

Adult Silver Arowanas should be fed once a day, while younger fish can be fed twice daily. Be mindful not to overfeed, as excess food can quickly foul the tank’s water, leading to health issues. Monitor your fish’s eating habits to ensure they are getting the right amount of food.

## Where to Buy Silver Arowana: Finding Reputable Sellers

When looking to *buy Silver Arowana*, it’s essential to find reputable breeders or sellers who offer healthy, well-cared-for fish. The demand for exotic fish has given rise to unregulated markets, where fish may be bred or sold in poor conditions. Always do your research before purchasing.

### Buying Silver Arowana Online

Many aquarium enthusiasts prefer to buy *Silver Arowana for sale online*, as it provides a wider selection and sometimes better prices. However, buying fish online requires careful consideration. Ensure that the seller has a solid reputation, offers a live arrival guarantee, and follows ethical breeding practices.

– *Research Reputable Sites*: Before purchasing, read reviews, check the seller’s history, and ask questions about their breeding practices. Well-known websites that specialize in exotic fish often provide detailed information about the fish they sell.

– *Shipping*: Ensure that the seller uses reliable, safe shipping methods for live fish. Shipping should include temperature control, proper packaging, and swift delivery to reduce stress on the fish.

### Finding Silver Arowana for Sale Near You

If you prefer to see the fish in person before purchasing, you can search for *Silver Arowana for sale near me*. Local fish stores, aquarium clubs, or specialty exotic pet shops may carry Arowanas, or they can source one for you. Visiting the store in person allows you to inspect the fish for signs of health and ask the seller questions directly.

– *Check for Health*: Look for bright, clear eyes, smooth, unblemished scales, and active swimming behavior. Avoid fish that appear sluggish, have torn fins, or show signs of disease.

– *Ask for Documentation*: If you’re purchasing from a local store, ask for the fish’s origin, including whether it was bred in captivity or caught in the wild. Captive-bred fish tend to be hardier and better adapted to life in an aquarium.

## Challenges and Responsibilities of Owning a Silver Arowana

Owning a Silver Arowana is a long-term commitment. These fish can live for up to 15-20 years in captivity if cared for properly. However, their large size, aggressive nature, and specific care needs can make them challenging for inexperienced aquarists.

 Common Challenges

– *Tank Size*: One of the most significant challenges is providing enough space. As they grow, many owners find that their initial tank is no longer adequate, requiring them to invest in a larger setup.

– *Aggression*: Silver Arowanas can be aggressive toward smaller fish, especially fish that resemble prey. Finding compatible tank mates for a Silver Arowana can be challenging, and in some cases, they may need to be housed alone.

– *Jumping*: As mentioned earlier, Silver Arowanas are excellent jumpers. They can leap several feet out of the water in search of prey, so a secure lid is essential to prevent escapes. If you underestimate their ability, you could find your fish outside the tank one day, which can be fatal.

– *Feeding Challenges*: While feeding live prey can be enriching for the fish, it can also be costly and inconvenient for the owner. Ensuring they have a varied and nutritious diet while managing the costs and logistics of providing live or fresh food is something all potential owners need to consider.

– *Health Issues*: Silver Arowanas are susceptible to a variety of health issues, including “drop-eye,” a condition where one or both eyes start to droop downward. Although the exact cause isn’t well understood, it’s believed to be related to poor water quality, genetics, or improper diet. Regular maintenance, a healthy environment, and proper nutrition can help reduce the risk of this and other diseases.

 The Joy of Owning a Silver Arowana

Despite the challenges, owning a Silver Arowana can be incredibly rewarding. These majestic fish have a striking presence and a unique personality that can captivate anyone who watches them. Their predatory instincts and fluid swimming motions make them one of the most fascinating freshwater fish to observe.

A well-cared-for Silver Arowana will thrive in its environment, becoming a long-term companion that grows and evolves with your aquarium. Their beauty, strength, and prehistoric lineage make them a true centerpiece for any large aquarium setup.

Silver Arowana and Its Symbolism

In some cultures, the Silver Arowana is considered a symbol of good luck and prosperity. Particularly in Asian cultures, Arowanas are often referred to as “dragon fish” due to their resemblance to the mythical dragon. Many believe that owning an Arowana brings wealth and fortune, which adds to the allure of these exotic fish.

Conclusion

The Silver Arowana is a magnificent fish that requires careful planning, dedication, and a strong understanding of its needs. From the large tank it requires to its predatory feeding habits, the Silver Arowana is not a casual pet for beginners. However, for those who are willing to invest the time and effort, this fish can provide years of beauty, fascination, and companionship.

Whether you’re searching for *Silver Arowana for sale near me* or considering the option to *buy Silver Arowana* online, always prioritize the health and welfare of the fish. Find reputable sellers, ensure your tank is prepared for their size and behavior, and be ready to commit to the long-term care they need. With the right setup and attention, the Silver Arowana will reward you with its majestic presence and captivating personality for years to come.

For those looking to bring home a true aquatic marvel, the Silver Arowana stands as an impressive and rewarding choice in the world of exotic fish.