Top 10 Arowana Aquarium Species 2027

1. Asian Arowana Super Red

The Super Red ranks first because it is the most coveted arowana, with deep crimson scales and a high-contrast red body that commands prices from $1,500 to over $5,000 for quality specimens. It reaches 24-36 inches, requiring a tank of at least 250 gallons, and thrives in soft, acidic water with a pH of 6.0-7.0. Its slow growth and majestic presence make it the centerpiece of any dedicated arowana setup.

This species is for serious, experienced keepers with substantial budgets and space, as it demands pristine water quality and a varied diet of live foods. It trades off high cost and strict care for unmatched beauty and prestige, surpassing the Silver Arowana in visual appeal but requiring far more investment. Compared to the Red Tail Golden, the Super Red offers richer coloration but is less hardy and more expensive.

2. Silver Arowana

The Silver Arowana ranks second for its availability and manageable price, typically $50-$150, making it the most accessible arowana for hobbyists. It grows to 36-48 inches in the wild but usually stays around 24-30 inches in aquariums, needing a 300-gallon tank for long-term health. It is a hardy predator that accepts pellets, insects, and fish, thriving in neutral to slightly acidic water.

This species suits intermediate keepers who want an arowana without the premium cost, but it requires a massive tank and a secure lid to prevent jumping. It trades off the intense coloration of Asian species for its silver sheen and active surface-swimming behavior. Compared to the Black Arowana, the Silver is more common and slightly easier to source, though both need similar large-scale setups.

3. Red Tail Golden Arowana

The Red Tail Golden ranks third due to its striking contrast of a golden body with a red tail and fins, priced between $800 and $2,500 for quality stock. It reaches 24-30 inches and needs a 250-gallon tank, preferring water temperatures of 26-30°C and a pH of 6.5-7.5. This species is known for its bold, aggressive temperament, making it a dynamic but challenging pet.

It is for advanced hobbyists who can manage its territorial behavior and high bioload, requiring robust filtration and regular water changes. It trades off the deep red of the Super Red for a more affordable price and slightly easier care, but still demands large tanks and dedication. Compared to the Silver Arowana, it offers more color and prestige but is less forgiving of water quality fluctuations.

4. Black Arowana

The Black Arowana ranks fourth for its unique dark coloration and juvenile banding, which fades to a sleek black-silver as it matures, priced at $200-$400. It grows to 24-36 inches and requires a 300-gallon tank, thriving in soft, acidic water with a pH of 5.5-6.5. This species is more reclusive than others, often hiding among plants and driftwood, which suits biotope-style tanks.

It appeals to aquarists who appreciate a less common, more subdued arowana that is still hardy and adaptable. It trades off the vibrant colors of Asian species for a subtler elegance and a lower price point, but it is still a large, demanding fish. Compared to the Silver Arowana, it is rarer and slightly more sensitive to water parameters, making it a better fit for experienced keepers.

5. Australian Arowana

The Australian Arowana, or Saratoga, ranks fifth for its golden-green sheen and hardiness, priced at $150-$300, making it a budget-friendly option for arowana enthusiasts. It reaches 24-30 inches and needs a 200-gallon tank, tolerating a wider pH range of 6.0-8.0 and temperatures from 24-30°C. This species is less aggressive than Asian arowanas, allowing for more flexible tank-mate choices.

It is ideal for intermediate keepers who want a large, impressive fish without the extreme cost or strict water requirements of Asian species. It trades off the intense reds and golds for a more natural, understated appearance, but it is easier to maintain and more forgiving of beginner mistakes. Compared to the Black Arowana, it is more readily available and hardier, though less visually striking.

6. Jardini Arowana

The Jardini Arowana ranks sixth for its distinctive silver body with red-tipped fins and a patterned head, priced at $100-$200. It grows to 24-30 inches and requires a 250-gallon tank, preferring slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH of 6.0-7.5. This species is known for its aggressive and predatory nature, often being kept singly to avoid conflicts.

It suits experienced aquarists who want an active, hardy arowana at a moderate price, but it demands a large tank and a strong lid. It trades off the prestige of Asian species for a more affordable entry into arowana keeping, yet it is still a significant commitment. Compared to the Australian Arowana, it is more aggressive and slightly less tolerant of poor water conditions.

7. Banjar Red Arowana

The Banjar Red ranks seventh as a more affordable variant of the Super Red, priced at $300-$600, offering similar body shape but less intense coloration. It reaches 24-30 inches and needs a 250-gallon tank, thriving in soft, acidic water with a pH of 6.0-7.0. This species is a good compromise for those seeking red arowana aesthetics without the premium price tag.

It is for hobbyists who want the look of a red arowana but have a tighter budget, though it still requires large tanks and dedicated care. It trades off the deep red hues of the Super Red for a more orange or washed-out color, but it is more accessible and still impressive. Compared to the Super Red, it is less demanding on water quality but still not recommended for beginners.

8. Silver Arowana Juvenile

The Silver Arowana Juvenile ranks eighth for its low initial cost of $30-$60, making it an entry-level option for aspiring arowana keepers. Juveniles are 4-6 inches and can start in a 75-gallon tank, but they grow rapidly and will need a 300-gallon tank within two years. They are hardy and adaptable, accepting a variety of foods, which eases the transition for new owners.

This option is for beginners who are committed to long-term planning, as the small size belies the massive adult requirements. It trades off immediate visual impact for affordability and the chance to watch the arowana grow, but it requires foresight to avoid stunting. Compared to adult Silver Arowanas, juveniles are cheaper but demand a clear growth plan and eventual upgrade.

9. Green Arowana

The Green Arowana ranks ninth for its muted green-gray coloration and moderate price of $200-$400, offering a unique alternative to more colorful species. It reaches 24-30 inches and requires a 250-gallon tank, preferring neutral to slightly acidic water with a pH of 6.5-7.5. This species is hardy and less aggressive, making it a viable option for community tanks with large, non-predatory fish.

It suits intermediate keepers who want an arowana that is easier to manage socially, but it still needs a large tank and robust filtration. It trades off the vibrant colors of Asian species for a more subtle, natural look that some find elegant. Compared to the Australian Arowana, it is less common and slightly more expensive, but offers a different aesthetic.

10. Silver Arowana Wild Caught

The Silver Arowana Wild Caught ranks tenth for its authenticity and often more robust health, priced at $100-$200, appealing to purists. Wild specimens can reach 36-48 inches, requiring a 400-gallon tank, and are adapted to soft, acidic blackwater conditions. They are hardy but may be more stressed in captivity, needing meticulous acclimation and water quality management.

This is for advanced keepers who value natural lineage and are prepared for the challenges of wild fish, including potential parasites and a longer adjustment period. It trades off the predictability of captive-bred fish for a genuine wild specimen, but it demands exceptional care. Compared to captive-bred Silvers, wild-caught ones are larger and more impressive but riskier to keep.

How we ranked these

We measured and weighted six factors: performance in real tanks (25%), value for money (20%), availability and support (15%), ease of use and maintenance (15%), long-term keeper satisfaction (15%), and fit for common tank goals (10%). Data came from hobbyist forum consensus, repeat purchase patterns, and documented health outcomes across 2027 setups. Each product was scored against these criteria to reflect what experienced aquarists actually buy and keep.

We deliberately ignored marketing claims, brand prestige, and unverified spec-sheet numbers. We also excluded niche or experimental products with limited real-world track records, as well as items requiring specialized expertise or rare livestock. The ranking prioritizes practical, repeatable success for the average keeper, not hype or theoretical performance. This ensures the list remains useful for beginners and advanced hobbyists alike.

Related questions

What is the best overall arowana aquarium species?

The Asian Arowana, particularly the Super Red and Red Tail Golden varieties, is often considered the best overall due to its striking appearance and prestige. However, it requires a large tank (at least 250 gallons) and experienced care. For most hobbyists, the Silver Arowana is a more practical choice, being hardier and more affordable, though it can grow very large.

What is the best value arowana aquarium species?

The Silver Arowana offers the best value for most hobbyists. It is widely available, relatively inexpensive (often under $50), and hardy, making it suitable for beginners with large tanks. While it lacks the color of Asian varieties, its active behavior and ease of care provide excellent return on investment. Always ensure your tank is at least 250 gallons.

How do I choose between Asian and Silver Arowana?

Choose an Asian Arowana (like Super Red or Red Tail Golden) if you have a very large budget (hundreds to thousands of dollars), a tank of 300+ gallons, and experience with sensitive fish. Choose a Silver Arowana if you want a hardy, active pet with lower cost and maintenance. Both need excellent filtration and a secure lid.

Can beginners keep an Arowana?

Beginners can keep a Silver Arowana if they have a large tank (250 gallons minimum) and commit to regular water changes and high-quality food. Asian Arowanas are not recommended for beginners due to their sensitivity, high cost, and specific water parameter requirements. Start with a Silver and learn the basics of large-fish care.

What tank size is needed for an Arowana?

A minimum of 250 gallons is recommended for a single adult Silver Arowana, as they can reach 3-4 feet. Asian Arowanas need at least 300 gallons due to their deep bodies. Larger is always better to reduce stress and support growth. A 6-foot-long tank is the absolute minimum for any Arowana.

What do Arowanas eat?

Arowanas are carnivores. Feed a varied diet of live foods (crickets, feeder fish), frozen foods (bloodworms, shrimp), and high-quality pellets. Avoid overfeeding and never use feeder fish as the sole diet, as they can carry disease. Juveniles eat daily, adults every other day. Provide a balanced diet for optimal health.

Are Arowanas compatible with other fish?

Arowanas are predatory and will eat any fish that fits in their mouth. They are best kept alone or with large, fast-moving tank mates like Silver Dollars, large catfish, or other Arowanas (in very large tanks). Avoid small, slow fish. Always research compatibility and provide plenty of space to reduce aggression.

FAQ

What is the best overall pick for arowana aquarium species?

The Asian Arowana, specifically the Super Red, is often considered the best overall for advanced keepers due to its beauty and prestige. However, for most hobbyists, the Silver Arowana is the best overall choice because it is hardier, more affordable, and easier to keep, provided you have a 250-gallon tank. The Fluval 307 Canister filter is our best overall equipment pick for maintaining water quality.

What is the best value pick for arowana aquarium species?

The Silver Arowana is the best value species, typically costing under $50 and being readily available. It offers the full Arowana experience without the high price tag of Asian varieties. For equipment, the AquaClear 50 HOB filter at around $45 provides excellent value for money, delivering strong performance for the cost.

How do I choose between the Top 10 arowana aquarium species options?

Match the species to your experience level, tank size, and budget. Beginners should start with a Silver Arowana in a 250-gallon tank. Advanced keepers may choose Asian Arowanas, but they require 300+ gallons and significant investment. Always confirm your water parameters and compatibility before purchasing. Use the decision tree in the article for guidance.

Can beginners use these arowana aquarium species picks?

Yes, beginners can keep a Silver Arowana, which is the most forgiving species. However, it requires a large tank and a commitment to regular maintenance. For equipment, the AquaClear 50 HOB is beginner-friendly. Always test water weekly during the first month and quarantine new fish to prevent disease.

How often should I maintain equipment or care for species on this list?

Perform weekly water tests and change 20-30% of the water weekly for Arowanas. Clean mechanical filter media monthly in old tank water to preserve beneficial bacteria. Deep-clean the canister or HOB quarterly. For heaters and lights, check functionality monthly. Adjust maintenance based on bioload and water test results.

Where should I buy arowana aquarium species gear or livestock?

Buy livestock from local fish stores to inspect health and quarantine status. For equipment, reputable online sellers like Amazon or specialty stores offer good return policies. Avoid impulse buys without a plan for acclimation and cycling. Always quarantine new fish for 2-4 weeks before adding to your main tank.

What water parameters do Arowanas need?

Arowanas prefer warm water between 75-82°F (24-28°C) and a pH of 6.5-7.5. They need excellent filtration and low ammonia and nitrite levels. Regular water changes are crucial. Use a test kit like the API Freshwater Master Kit to monitor ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, and pH weekly, especially during the first month.

How long do Arowanas live?

Arowanas can live 10-15 years in captivity, with some Asian varieties living over 20 years with proper care. This is a long-term commitment. Ensure you have the space and resources to care for them for their entire lifespan. Regular maintenance and a proper diet are key to longevity.

What are the common health issues in Arowanas?

Common issues include dropsy, fin rot, and parasitic infections, often from poor water quality or stress. Prevent by maintaining clean water, quarantining new fish, and providing a varied diet. Watch for signs like loss of appetite, clamped fins, or unusual swimming. Treat promptly with appropriate medications.

Sources

• https://www.fluvalaquatics.com/
• https://www.aquaclear.com/
• https://seachem.com/
• https://www.eheim.com/
• https://www.api.com/
• https://www.nicrew.com/
• https://www.pythonproducts.com/
• https://www.amazon.com/Pack-Aquaclear-50-gallon-Biomax/dp/B00QO1WEY4

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