
Black arowana
Osteoglossum ferreirai
Silvery-blue adults with dark rear fins and pale orange edging
Adults are not uniformly black; iridescent sides and dark, edged fins mark this form.
- Adult length
- Up to 90 cm
- Water temperature
- 24–30 °C
- Lifespan
- 15–20 years
- pH
- 6.5–7.4
- Natural habitat
- Occurs in rivers and streams.
A large surface predator and jumper; conspecific territorial behaviour needs attention.
Appearance and identification
Appearance varies. Juvenile coloration is more distinctive; adult silver and black arowanas can be similar.
Adult space
Provide substantial swimming space.
Diet and feeding
Eats insects and fish.
Same-species behaviour
Juveniles may be kept together, but adults may not be safe in a group.
Compatibility limits
Fish small enough to swallow are at risk.
Sources
researcharchive.calacademy.org ↗ 2026-10-22
www.fishbase.se ↗ 2026-10-25
www.aqua-imports.com ↗ 2026-10-22
nas.er.usgs.gov ↗ 2026-10-22
