Black arowana

Introduction

The Black arowana (Osteoglossum ferreirai) is a striking freshwater fish native to South America, renowned for its sleek, elongated body and shimmering black scales. Highly prized by aquarists, this species captivates with its graceful swimming and unique surface-feeding behavior. While their beauty is undeniable, Black arowanas require specific care and ample space, making them more suitable for experienced fishkeepers prepared to meet their demanding needs.

Care and Environment

Proper care for a Black arowana involves meticulous attention to tank size, water quality, diet, and habitat setup to ensure their health and longevity.

What is the minimum tank size required for a Black arowana?

Juvenile Black arowanas can start in a tank of at least 160 liters, but adults require a minimum of 600 liters to accommodate their growth and active nature. Larger tanks are preferable to provide ample swimming space and reduce stress.

What are the ideal water parameters for Black arowanas?

Maintain water temperatures between 24°C and 28°C, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. Water hardness should be kept between 1 and 8 dGH. Consistent water quality is crucial, as Black arowanas are sensitive to fluctuations.

How should the tank be set up for a Black arowana?

Provide a spacious tank with minimal decorations to allow free swimming. Use a soft, sandy substrate and include driftwood or sturdy plants like Amazon Swords to mimic their natural habitat. Ensure the tank has a secure, tight-fitting lid to prevent escapes, as Black arowanas are known for their jumping ability.

Filtration should be robust to handle the significant waste produced by these large fish. Canister or sump filters are recommended to maintain water clarity and quality. Regular water changes of 25% or more weekly are essential to keep nitrate levels low.

Lighting should be moderate to prevent stress, and the tank should be placed in a low-traffic area to avoid startling the fish. Before turning on aquarium lighting, it's advisable to turn on ambient room lighting first to prevent the arowana from getting startled and attempting to jump out of the tank.

Diet is another critical aspect. Black arowanas are carnivorous and thrive on a varied diet of live or frozen foods such as shrimp, krill, and small fish. Juveniles should be fed 2–3 times daily, while adults can be fed once daily, ensuring they consume all food within 1–2 minutes to prevent overfeeding and maintain water quality.

Origin and Habitat

Black arowanas are native to the Rio Negro basin in Brazil and Colombia, as well as the upper Essequibo River basin in Guyana. They inhabit blackwater environments, characterized by acidic waters rich in tannins from decaying vegetation. During the dry season, they are found in backwaters, marginal lagoons, and small tributaries, while in the high water season, they often venture into flooded forests. These habitats typically have slow-moving waters with abundant submerged vegetation and a soft, sandy substrate.

Temperament and Compatibility

Black arowanas are generally solitary and can be territorial, especially as they mature. They are best kept alone or with other large, non-aggressive fish that cannot be easily swallowed. Suitable tank mates include large cichlids, catfish, and other robust species. It's crucial to avoid housing them with smaller fish, as these may be seen as prey.

Can Black arowanas be kept with other arowanas?

Keeping multiple Black arowanas together is challenging due to their territorial nature. If attempted, it requires a significantly larger tank and careful monitoring to prevent aggression.

What are some suitable tank mates for a Black arowana?

Suitable tank mates include large cichlids like Oscars, large catfish such as Plecos, and other similarly sized, non-aggressive fish. Always monitor interactions to ensure compatibility.

How can aggression be minimized in a community tank?

Providing ample space, hiding spots, and ensuring all fish are of similar size can help minimize aggression. Regular monitoring and being prepared to separate fish if necessary is also important.

Interesting Facts

Black arowanas are known for their impressive jumping ability, often leaping out of the water to catch prey. This behavior underscores the importance of a secure tank lid. In the wild, they are mouthbrooders; males carry fertilized eggs in their mouths until they hatch, a fascinating reproductive strategy. Additionally, juveniles display a striking black coloration with yellow markings, which gradually fades as they mature into their adult coloration.

Sources

All information in this article has been gathered from the following reputable sources:

• petzonesd.com
• tropicalfishsite.com
• wikipedia.org