How to maintain the brightness of arowana fish

Maintaining the brightness (color vibrancy) of an arowana requires consistent water quality, proper nutrition, stress reduction, and appropriate lighting. Key practices:

Scleropages Jardinii

Water quality

• Keep ammonia and nitrite at 0 ppm; nitrate under 20–40 ppm. Test water weekly.

• Perform regular water changes: 20–30% weekly or 30–50% biweekly depending on stocking and filtration.

• Maintain stable temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C) depending on species.

• pH and hardness: most arowana species prefer pH 6.5–7.5 and moderate hardness; avoid sudden shifts.

• Use efficient filtration and good surface agitation for oxygenation.

Nutrition

• Feed a varied, high-quality diet rich in protein and carotenoids for color. Rotate foods:

  • Live/frozen: shrimp, krill, silversides, tilapia, earthworms (ensure disease-free sources).

  • Prepared: high-protein pellets formulated for carnivorous cichlids/aro wana with added astaxanthin or natural color enhancers.

  • Occasional treats: insects, feeder fish only from trusted suppliers.

• Avoid overfeeding; feed 1–2 times daily for adults, more often for juveniles. Remove uneaten food promptly.

Lighting and tank environment

• Provide a consistent light cycle: 8–10 hours light daily to help pigment development; avoid intense, prolonged lighting that causes stress or algae.

• Use full-spectrum aquarium lights; some arowana owners use bulbs with slightly warmer tones to enhance reds/golds.

• Include neutral backgrounds and minimal reflective surfaces to reduce stress and prevent color fading.

Stress reduction and health

• House arowana in appropriately sized tanks (juveniles need 100+ gallons; adults 250+ recommended).

• Avoid aggressive tankmates; maintain low population density.

• Quarantine new fish and treat parasites promptly.

• Monitor behavior and body condition; dullness can signal illness, poor diet, or water problems.

Consistent care over months is required; gradual improvement is normal.