How to Choose the Best Asian Arowana for Sale for Your Aquarium

Introduction: The Majesty of the Asian Arowana

Asian Arowana, also known as the “dragon fish,” is one of the most coveted aquarium fish in the world. With their metallic scales, graceful movement, and vibrant colors, they symbolize luck, prosperity, and strength—especially in many Asian cultures.

If you’re searching for the perfect Asian Arowana for Sale to add to your aquarium, it’s essential to understand the qualities that define a good specimen and what you should look for during the selection process. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from types and colors to tank setup and ethical sourcing.

Understanding the Asian Arowana Species

Before diving into the buying process, it’s crucial to understand the basics of the Asian Arowana species. These freshwater fish belong to the family Osteoglossidae and are known for their prehistoric appearance and distinct body features.

Common Types of Asian Arowana

Red Arowana
Gold Arowana (Crossback & Highback)
Green Arowana
Blue Base Arowana
Banjar Red Arowana

Each type has unique colors, patterns, and rarity levels. Knowing the distinctions helps you select the fish that best matches your aesthetic and budget preferences.

Why Choose an Asian Arowana for Your Aquarium?

Asian Arowanas are more than just beautiful additions; they’re known to form bonds with their owners, recognize feeding times, and display intelligent behavior. Here’s why hobbyists worldwide admire them:

Symbol of Prosperity: In many cultures, they are believed to bring fortune and positive energy.
Exquisite Colors: No other freshwater fish showcases such an intense range of red, gold, and blue hues.
Graceful Presence: Their large size and smooth movement make them mesmerizing centerpiece fish.

Key Factors to Consider When Buying an Asian Arowana

1. Color and Shine

Color is one of the most important factors when selecting an Asian Arowana. Look for fish with vibrant, even coloration across the body. The shine should extend from the gill plate to the tail, especially in crossback and red variants.

Red Arowana should have deep crimson shades, not pale pink.
Gold Arowana should have a metallic luster visible even under ambient light.

2. Body Shape and Size

A healthy Arowana should have:

A long, torpedo-shaped body
Evenly proportioned fins
A broad, powerful tail
No deformities or bent spines

Juveniles are more affordable and adapt quickly, while adults show full color development.

3. Swimming Style and Activity

Observe the fish in motion. A healthy Arowana should:

Swim gracefully without erratic behavior
Hold its body level and straight
Show active interest in surroundings

Lethargy or tilted swimming could indicate health problems.

4. Barbels and Eyes

The twin barbels at the tip of the lower jaw are an essential part of the fish’s sensory system. Choose a fish with:

Straight, unbroken barbels
Eyes that are symmetrical and not sunken or droopy

Eye droop is common in older fish kept in tanks with little vertical activity, so choose wisely.

5. Certificate of Authenticity

Since Asian Arowanas are endangered and protected under CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species), always ensure your fish comes with proper certification and documentation.

Creating the Ideal Habitat for Asian Arowana

Before purchasing, ensure your aquarium is ready to host such a majestic fish.

Tank Size

Minimum recommended size:

Juveniles: 150 gallons
Adults: 250 gallons or larger

Arowanas need ample space to swim and grow. A wide tank with significant surface area is preferred over taller tanks.

Water Parameters

Maintain the following conditions:

Temperature: 75°F – 86°F (24°C – 30°C)
pH: 6.0 – 7.5
Ammonia & Nitrite: 0 ppm
Regular water changes: 20–30% weekly

Use strong filters and regular testing kits to maintain stable water chemistry.

Tank Setup

Substrate: Bare-bottom or fine sand
Lighting: Moderate, with occasional UV exposure to enhance color
Decoration: Minimal – avoid sharp edges, use driftwood or smooth rocks
Tank Lid: Must be tightly sealed; Arowanas are known to jump!

Feeding and Nutrition

Asian Arowanas are carnivorous and thrive on a varied diet that includes:

Live or frozen fish (with caution)
Prawns and shrimp (with shells removed)
Crickets, mealworms, and insects
High-protein pellets designed for Arowanas

Avoid overfeeding and provide food 1–2 times daily based on the fish’s age and appetite.

Health Checks Before You Buy

Never purchase an Arowana without conducting a visual health inspection or reviewing health history.

Signs of a Healthy Arowana:

Smooth scales and even coloring
Active and alert behavior
No visible wounds or torn fins
Normal breathing rate
Clear eyes and intact barbels

Avoid fish showing:

Cloudy or bulging eyes
Loss of scales or patches
Erratic swimming
Rapid gill movement or gasping

Ethical Sourcing and Legal Compliance

Asian Arowanas are endangered and heavily regulated. To ensure you are purchasing responsibly:

Only buy from certified breeders or trusted sources
Check for microchip ID or CITES documentation
Avoid wild-caught specimens

By supporting responsible breeders, you contribute to the conservation of this majestic species.

Where to Buy the Best Asian Arowana for Sale

When it comes to making your purchase, always go for a trusted source that guarantees:

Certified and healthy fish
Proper documentation
Secure and humane shipping methods

For a reliable selection of premium Asian Arowana for Sale, explore our trusted Arowana fish shop. Their collection includes top-quality red, gold, and green varieties with complete certification and support.

Final Tips for Choosing the Right Arowana

Here’s a quick checklist before making your final decision:

✅ Does it have proper CITES documentation?
✅ Is the fish healthy and active?
✅ Are the colors vibrant and evenly distributed?
✅ Is the seller reputable and transparent?
✅ Is your aquarium fully prepared for its arrival?

Conclusion: Make the Right Choice for a Lifelong Companion

Choosing the right Asian Arowana for Sale is not just about picking the most colorful fish—it’s about ensuring the health, safety, and longevity of a magnificent creature. With proper knowledge, habitat, and care, your Arowana can become the centerpiece of your aquarium for years to come.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned aquarist, taking the time to choose wisely will reward you with an awe-inspiring aquatic companion. Begin your journey by exploring certified, healthy Arowana options at Buy Arowana Fish Shop—your trusted destination for the best Asian Arowana for Sale online.