Description
Black Arowana (Osteoglossum ferreirai)
📌 Basic Info
Scientific Name: Osteoglossum ferreirai
Family: Osteoglossidae
Origin: South America (Rio Negro, Orinoco, and Amazon basins)
Size: Up to 36 inches (90–92 cm) in the wild; typically 24–30 inches (60–75 cm) in aquariums
Lifespan: 10 – 15 years (can live longer in ideal conditions)
Tank Zone: Top dweller (surface swimmer and jumper)
🌊 Water Parameters
TDS: 100 – 250 ppm
pH: 6.0 – 7.0
Temperature: 24 – 30°C (75 – 86°F)
Hardness: 3 – 12 dGH
🐟 Characteristics
Body: Dark gray to black with metallic sheen, large elongated scales, strong streamlined body
Nickname: Sometimes called “Black Dragon Fish” due to its powerful presence
Mouth: Bony tongue and upturned mouth adapted for surface feeding
Jumping Ability: Can leap over 3 feet (1 m) to catch prey
Behavior: Juveniles are relatively peaceful, adults may become territorial or predatory; slower to mature than Silver Arowanas
🍽️ Food
Type: Carnivorous surface feeder
Diet: Live or frozen foods such as prawns, fish, insects, crickets, mealworms, and shrimp; can adapt to high-quality pellets for Arowanas
Feeding: Once or twice daily — avoid overfeeding; ensure varied diet for proper growth and coloration
🛠️ Maintenance
Tank Size: Minimum 250 gallons (950 L) for adults — larger tanks preferred
Filtration: Strong filtration and high oxygenation; excellent water quality is essential
Decor: Open swimming space with minimal sharp decor; floating plants and subdued lighting preferred
Cover: Tight-fitting lid (Arowanas are notorious jumpers)
Water Change: 25–30% weekly; stable water parameters required
👥 Social Behavior
Minimum Group Size: Best kept singly (territorial as adults)
Tank Mates: Large, peaceful bottom/mid-level fish — Stingrays, Bichirs, Silver Dollars, large Plecos
Avoid: Small fish (they’ll be eaten), aggressive species, or fin-nippers
✅ Do’s
Keep in a large, covered tank with open swimming area
Maintain stable, warm, and clean water
Feed a varied diet to maintain health and growth
Use floating plants or subdued lighting to reduce stress
❌ Don’ts
Don’t house with small or slow-moving fish
Don’t keep in tanks under 6 feet in length for adults
Don’t neglect water quality — sensitive to ammonia/nitrite
Don’t expose to strong direct light for long periods
⭐ Quick Tips
One of the most impressive freshwater predators — dark, majestic, and striking
Black Arowanas are intelligent, can recognize their owners, and require proper care to thrive
Best for experienced aquarists with large, secure tanks
