Getting my first golden Asian arowana

Believed to bring luck and fortune for Chinese New Year, after countless visits to more or less 10 aquarium shops & farms in Singapore hyped by peak curiosity on fresh water aquarium hobby - I decided to get one of the swimming Diamond Himalaya Birkin, the well known Gold-plated Bugatti Veyron of the swamps and the Saffron of the aquarium world - The Golden Asian Arowana.

As the fish and water elements in Chinese tradition represents fortune, prosperity and abundance, why not adopt to what they believed in.

Arowana is a type of freshwater fish that is well-known for its beautiful scales, vibrant colors, and fascinating behavior. They are popular among aquarium hobbyists and are often considered to be the king of freshwater aquarium fish. If you are interested in starting an arowana hobby at home, this guide will give you an overview of what you need to know to get started.

Meet my Golden Asian Arowana - "Wana"

Aquarium Setup

The first step in starting an arowana hobby is to set up an appropriate aquarium. Arowana fish require a large tank, with a minimum size of 100 gallons. This is because they are large fish that need plenty of room to swim around. The tank should also have a good filtration system to keep the water clean and healthy for the fish. A good rule of thumb is to have a filter that can handle four times the volume of the tank per hour.

Substrate and Decorations

Next, you will need to choose a suitable substrate and decorations for your arowana tank. Arowana fish like to have plenty of hiding places, so it is important to choose decorations that will provide them with a sense of security. You can use natural materials such as rocks, driftwood, and live plants to create a natural-looking environment for your fish.

Lighting

Arowana fish need a lot of light, so it is important to choose a lighting system that will provide them with enough light to see their surroundings. You can use a combination of fluorescent lights and LED lights to provide bright, natural-looking light.

Water Chemistry

It is essential to maintain the right water chemistry in your arowana tank. Arowana fish prefer a pH level between 7.0 and 7.5, and a water temperature between 23 to 29 degrees Celcius. To keep the water chemistry stable, you will need to perform regular water changes and monitor the levels of ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate in the water.

Feeding

Arowana fish are omnivores and require a varied diet to stay healthy. You can feed them a mix of live, frozen, and dry foods, including krill, worms, and pellets. It is important to feed them small portions several times a day, rather than one large feeding. This will help to keep their digestive system healthy and reduce the risk of constipation.

Breeding

Breeding arowana fish can be a challenging but rewarding experience. Arowana fish require a large tank with plenty of swimming space and a breeding cave to lay their eggs. They also require a high-protein diet during the breeding season to ensure that they are in the best possible health.

Health Concerns

Like all living creatures, arowana fish can be susceptible to various health problems. Some common health issues that can affect arowana fish include swim bladder disorder, skin infections, and parasites. To keep your arowana fish healthy, it is important to perform regular water changes, provide them with a balanced diet, and monitor them for any signs of illness.

Starting an arowana hobby at home can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. With a little bit of preparation, the right equipment, and a bit of patience, you can create a beautiful and healthy environment for your arowana fish. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced aquarium hobbyist, there is always something new to learn about these fascinating fish. So why not start your own arowana hobby today and experience the joy of keeping these beautiful creatures in your own home.