(1) Silver Arowana 6-7in

The silver arowana (Osteoglossum bicirrhosum) is a prehistoric, predatory freshwater fish known for its large, metallic scales, long body, and ability to jump out of the water to catch prey. Native to the Amazon River basin, it is a demanding but impressive fish that requires a massive, long-term commitment from an experienced aquarist

• Coloration: Juveniles often have a subtle blue or pearlescent glint, but adults develop large, shiny, silvery scales that give them their name.
• Body Shape: The body is long and ribbon-like, with the dorsal and anal fins extending to the tapered tail.
• Barbels:
  
  
  Two sensory organs called barbels extend from the tip of their lower jaw, which they use to locate prey.
• Size: In captivity, silver arowanas commonly reach 3 to 4 feet in length and can live for 10 to 20 years or more. 

• Tank size: Due to their massive adult size, they require a minimum of a 250-gallon tank. However, a larger tank of 300 gallons or more or an indoor pond is a more suitable long-term habitat.
• Lid: A strong, tightly secured lid is essential, as arowanas are notorious jumpers, a behavior they use to catch prey in the wild.
• Aquascaping:
  
  
  They prefer tanks with plenty of open swimming space, particularly near the surface. Decorate with a fine substrate, large, smooth river stones, and large pieces of driftwood that provide hiding places.
• Water parameters:
  • Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C).
  • pH:
    
    
    6.0–7.5.
• Filtration: A powerful canister filter or sump system is necessary to maintain pristine water quality, as they are large fish that create a significant bio-load. 

• Carnivorous: In the wild, they are surface feeders that primarily eat insects, crustaceans, and other small fish.
• Aquarium diet: Offer a varied diet of high-quality, meaty foods.
  • Frozen foods like bloodworms, krill, and chopped fish fillet.
    
    
  • Live insects like crickets or mealworms.
  • High-quality floating pellets or sticks specifically designed for arowanas. 

• Predatory: Silver arowanas are aggressive predators that will eat any fish or invertebrate that can fit into their large, upward-facing mouth.
• Temperament: While they can be conditioned to accept frozen and pelleted foods, they are often skittish and should be housed in a quiet, low-traffic area.
• Tank mates:
  
  
  Arowanas are best kept alone in a dedicated species tank. If tank mates are desired, they must be large, robust, and occupy a different part of the tank.
  • Compatible: Larger cichlids (like oscars), large catfish, and large plecos can sometimes work.
  • Incompatible: Small fish, invertebrates, and other arowanas.