A massive, prehistoric-looking surface predator native to the Amazon Basin. Known for their metallic silver scales and incredible jumping ability (used in the wild to catch insects from low-hanging branches). They grow exceptionally fast and require gigantic aquariums. They will consume any tank mate small enough to fit into their large, trapdoor-like mouths.
At a Glance
Tank Requirements
Find the right tank equipment
Browse tanks, décor, and equipment suited for this setup.
Water Parameters
Shop water care essentials
Keep water parameters stable with the right testing and heating gear.
Temperament & Compatibility
Available Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Standard (Adult)
The fully mature form. Requires an extraordinarily large tank (minimum 8 feet long) with a heavily weighted, secure lid due to their explosive jumping capability. Generally peaceful with fish too large to eat, but fiercely territorial against other Arowanas.
Same care requirements as the base species
Also known as: Adult Arowana, Full Grown Arowana
Juvenile (Grow-out)
Baby Arowanas often sold with their yolk sacs just absorbed. They grow astonishingly fast (often 1-2 inches per month). While they can temporarily be housed in smaller aquariums, they will require an 8-foot tank within their first year to prevent stunting and 'drop-eye'.
Differs in 4 traits from base species
Also known as: Baby Arowana, Fingerling, Juvenile
Albino / Platinum (Adult)
A highly sought-after color morph lacking normal pigmentation. Care, sizing, and extreme tank requirements are identical to the standard Silver Arowana.
Same care requirements as the base species
Also known as: Albino Arowana, Platinum Arowana, Snow White
Silver Arowana Care Guide Summary
The Silver Arowana, scientifically known as Osteoglossum bicirrhosum, belongs to the Oddballs family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 100 cm and have a compressed body shape with a fast growth rate. Classified as semi-aggressive, this species primarily occupies the surface zone of the aquarium and produces a extreme level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Silver Arowana requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 1000 litres and a tank length of at least 240 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 24°C and 30°C, with a pH range of 6–7.5 and a general hardness of 1–12 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred. An aquarium test kit can help you monitor these values.
The Silver Arowana is a rewarding species to keep, provided its core environmental needs are met. This species is available in 3 varieties: Standard (Adult), Juvenile (Grow-out), and Albino / Platinum (Adult). Each may differ slightly in size, temperament, or care needs, so it is worth checking the specific requirements of the variety you plan to keep.
Silver Arowana Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Silver Arowana, a moderate water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the surface zone, the aquarium layout should prioritise adequate surface area with floating cover to make them feel secure near the waterline. Useful additions include smooth gravel or rounded substrate to protect their sensitive barbels. Keepers should note that a tight-fitting lid is essential, as this species is a known jumper. Browse smooth aquarium gravel options to find the best fit.
Silver Arowana Compatibility Notes
Classified as semi-aggressive, the Silver Arowana is best housed alone, as they do not tolerate others of their kind in confined spaces. When choosing tankmates, any fish small enough to fit in its mouth will likely be eaten, territorial behaviour may cause issues if hiding spots or floor space are limited, and their energetic swimming style may stress more sedentary or timid species. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the surface zone can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.
Frequently Asked Questions About Silver Arowana
How big does Silver Arowana get?
Silver Arowana (Osteoglossum bicirrhosum) typically reaches a maximum adult size of approximately 100 cm. They have a compressed body shape and a fast growth rate.
What tank size does Silver Arowana need?
A minimum aquarium volume of 1000 litres and a tank length of at least 240 cm are recommended for Silver Arowana. This ensures enough swimming space and helps maintain stable water conditions.
What water parameters does Silver Arowana need?
Silver Arowana thrives in freshwater only conditions with a temperature range of 24–30°C, a pH between 6 and 7.5, and a general hardness of 1–12 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred.
Is Silver Arowana peaceful or aggressive?
Silver Arowana is classified as semi-aggressive with an aggression score of 6 out of 10. They can work in community setups but may clash with certain tankmates.
Can Silver Arowana live with others of its kind?
No. Only one Silver Arowana should be kept per tank. Keeping multiples in the same aquarium typically results in aggression and stress.
Does Silver Arowana have any special tank requirements?
Yes. Silver Arowana benefits from smooth gravel (sensitive barbels) in the aquarium. These features help replicate their natural habitat and promote overall health and well-being.
Does Silver Arowana need a lid on the tank?
Yes. Silver Arowana is a known jumper, and a tight-fitting lid or cover is essential to prevent escape. Even a small gap can be enough for a determined fish to leap out.
Similar Species
African Butterfly Fish
Pantodon buchholzi
A fascinating, prehistoric-looking surface dweller native to the slow-moving waters of West Africa. They are strictly top-dwelling ambush predators with a completely flat back and upturned mouth designed to hunt insects and small fish. A tight-fitting lid is absolutely mandatory as they are exceptional jumpers capable of gliding above the water.
Pictus Catfish
Pimelodus pictus
An extremely active, striking silver catfish with black spots and incredibly long barbels, native to South America. While peaceful toward similarly sized tank mates, they are highly effective nocturnal predators that will easily swallow small fish (like Neon Tetras) whole. They are scaleless and possess sharp pectoral spines that can easily become entangled in aquarium nets.
Black Ghost Knifefish
Apteronotus albifrons
A fascinating nocturnal predator native to the Amazon basin. It lacks a dorsal fin and moves via a continuous undulating ventral fin, allowing it to swim backwards as easily as forwards. It generates a weak electrical field to navigate and hunt in the dark. Scaleless and highly sensitive to medications, it requires smooth hiding places (like PVC pipes or smooth driftwood). Will consume any fish small enough to fit in its surprisingly large mouth.
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
Datnioides microlepis
A massive, deep-bodied ambush predator highly prized by monster fish keepers for its striking black and gold 'tiger' stripes. Native to the freshwater rivers of Southeast Asia, they possess huge mouths and will consume any fish small enough to fit. They are notoriously shy when young but grow into bold, impressive centerpieces. Due to intense conspecific aggression, they should be kept entirely solitary or in groups of 4 or more to disperse bullying.
Clown Knifefish
Chitala ornata
A massive, nocturnal predator native to Southeast Asia, widely known for the distinct row of ocellated spots above its anal fin. While sold as small silvery cute juveniles, they grow incredibly fast into nearly 1-meter giants that require immense aquariums. They are obligate carnivores and will eat any fish small enough to fit in their large mouths. They are shy during the day and require large hiding tubes or caves.
Red-Tail Catfish
Phractocephalus hemioliopterus
A massive, fast-growing predatory catfish from the Amazon basin. Famous for its voracious appetite, bulldozer-like behavior, and distinct red caudal fin. Due to its enormous adult size (often exceeding 4 feet), it is strictly a 'monster fish' that requires a heated indoor pond or a colossal custom aquarium. It is highly predatory and will swallow absolutely any tank mate that can fit into its cavernous mouth.