The Silver Arowana (Osteobrama cotio) is a freshwater fish native to Southeast Asia, prized for its striking silver coloration and majestic appearance.
Physical Characteristics:
- Body Shape: Elongated, slender, and slightly compressed
- Length: Typically 12-24 inches (30-60 cm), maximum 30 inches (76 cm)
- Weight: Up to 10 pounds (4.5 kg)
- Scales: Large, cycloid, and shimmering
- Coloration:
- Silver body with subtle blue or pink highlights
- Fins and tail: transparent or pale yellow
- Head Shape: Pointed, with a distinctive "hump" on forehead
Key Features:
- Striking silver coloration
- Majestic appearance
- Large, shimmering scales
- Powerful tail
- Intelligent and curious nature
Habitat and Distribution:
- Freshwater: rivers, lakes, and wetlands
- Native to:
- Southeast Asia (Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia)
- India and Bangladesh
Behavior and Diet:
- Carnivorous; feeds on:
- Fish (small and large)
- Crustaceans (crabs, shrimp)
- Insects
- Active swimmer; roams freely in aquarium
- Generally solitary, except during spawning
Reproduction and Lifespan:
- Spawning occurs in spring and summer
- Females lay up to 50,000 eggs
- Eggs hatch in 2-3 days
- Lifespan: up to 10-15 years
Conservation Status:
- Listed as Least Concern on IUCN Red List
- Regulated by local fishing laws to prevent overfishing
- Threats:
- Habitat loss and degradation
- Overfishing
- Pollution
Interesting Facts:
- Can breathe air from surface
- Has a highly efficient respiratory system
- Considered sacred in some Asian cultures
- Highly prized by aquarium enthusiasts
Aquarium Care:
- Challenging to keep due to specific water requirements
- Requires:
- Large tanks (min. 55 gallons)
- Strong filtration
- Regular water changes
- Varied diet
- Experienced aquarists only
Health Considerations:
- Prone to:
- Swim bladder issues
- Fin damage
- Bacterial infections
- Preventative measures:
- Regular water changes
- Balanced diet
- Monitor water quality
Diet and Nutrition:
- Carnivorous diet:
- Live or frozen meaty foods
- Commercial pellets or sticks
- Feed 2-3 times a day