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Black arowana adult wild-type left-facing transparent AI illustration

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.

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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

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