Silver arowana

Osteoglossum bicirrhosum

Reflective scales and long rear fins; plan for adult turning space

Large reflective scales, an upturned mouth and chin barbels frame a long silhouette.

Adult length: Up to 90 cm
Water temperature: 24–29 °C
Lifespan: 10–15 years
pH: 6–7

Natural habitat: Inhabits rivers and commonly feeds near the surface.

Small fish may be swallowed. It jumps, so use secure covers and plan for adult space.

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Appearance and identification

A South American freshwater species. Adult black arowanas may look similarly silver, so colour alone is not enough to identify it. Juvenile black arowanas differ conspicuously; adults can look very similar.

Adult space

Allow generous length, width and turning room.

Diet and feeding

Offer appropriate animal-based foods; pellet acceptance varies.

Same-species behaviour

Keep one per aquarium.

Compatibility limits

Large companions are not automatically safe.

Aquarium environment

Keep swimming space available.

Sources

researcharchive.calacademy.org ↗ 2026-10-22

www.fishbase.se ↗ 2026-10-25

www.fishkeeper.co.uk ↗ 2026-10-22

nas.er.usgs.gov ↗ 2026-10-22