Black Arowana (Osteoglossum ferreirai)

Fish in the family Osteoglossidae. Hard care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameOsteoglossum ferreirai

FamilyOsteoglossidae

Also known asBlack Aro

Care levelHard

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentSemi-aggressive

DietCarnivore

Adult size36 in

Minimum tank size250 gallons

Water parametersTemp 75-84°F, pH 5.5-7.0, GH 2-12 dGH

Appearance

Juveniles are jet black with bright yellow-and-blue striping; adults fade to a dark silvery sheen with the same upturned mouth, chin barbels, and long flowing fins as the silver arowana.

Difficulty and care for the Black Arowana

Hard

Origin and habitat

South America (Rio Negro basin)

Keeper notes

A monster surface predator like its silver cousin, reaching 3ft and swallowing fish; territorial and a powerful jumper. Juveniles are striking but require soft acidic blackwater conditions and grow rapidly. Keep a sealed, weighted lid.

Log Black Arowana in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Black Arowana alongside everything else in your reef.

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