Description
The Ultimate Guide to Buy Golden Arowana: Care, Costs & Considerations
The Golden Arowana (Scleropages formosus), revered as the “Dragon Fish,” is one of the most prestigious freshwater aquarium species worldwide. With its metallic golden scales and graceful movements, this fish symbolizes wealth and prosperity in Asian cultures. If you’re looking to buy Golden Arowana, this comprehensive guide covers everything from selection criteria to advanced care techniques.
Why Choose a Golden Arowana?
Before you buy Golden Arowana, understand what makes this species extraordinary:
- Cultural Significance: Believed to bring luck and fortune in Feng Shui
- Stunning Appearance: Metallic gold scales that shimmer under aquarium lighting
- Long Lifespan: 15-20 years with proper care
- Unique Behavior: Intelligent, surface-dwelling fish that recognize owners
Key Considerations Before You Buy Golden Arowana
1. Legal Requirements
The Golden Arowana is CITES-protected, meaning:
✔ Must be captive-bred with certification
✔ Requires proper documentation for legal ownership
✖ Wild-caught specimens are illegal in most countries
Always verify local regulations before purchasing.
2. Selecting a Healthy Specimen
When you buy Golden Arowana, look for:
| Feature | Healthy Signs | Red Flags |
|---|---|---|
| Scales | Uniform metallic sheen | Dull/discolored patches |
| Eyes | Clear, aligned horizontally | Cloudy or misaligned |
| Fins | Full, undamaged | Torn or clamped |
| Behavior | Active surface swimming | Lethargic or bottom-dwelling |
3. Tank Requirements
Minimum Tank Size:
- Juveniles (6″): 75-100 gallons
- Adults (36″): 250+ gallons
Essential Equipment:
- Canister filters (Rated 2x tank volume)
- LED lighting to enhance coloration
- Tight-fitting hood (Arowanas are expert jumpers)
Golden Arowana Care Guide
Water Parameters
| Parameter | Ideal Range |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 75-86°F (24-30°C) |
| pH Level | 6.5-7.5 |
| Hardness | 5-12 dGH |
| Ammonia/Nitrites | 0 ppm |
| Nitrates | <20 ppm |
Perform 25-30% weekly water changes
Feeding Regimen
Premium Diet for Optimal Coloration:
- Staple: High-quality floating pellets (50%)
- Protein: Live/frozen shrimp, crickets, small fish (40%)
- Supplements: Vitamin-enriched treats (10%)
Feed juveniles 2-3x daily; adults every other day
Tank Mates (Proceed with Caution)
Compatible Options:
- Large Plecos
- Stingrays (for massive tanks)
- Oscars (temporary only)
Avoid:
- Small fish (viewed as food)
- Aggressive cichlids
- Other Arowanas (territorial conflicts)
Where to Buy Golden Arowana
Reputable Sources:
- Certified Breeders: Look for CITES documentation
- Specialty Aquarium Stores: With Arowana expertise
- Reputable Online Retailers: Live arrival guarantees
Price Range:
- Juvenile (6″): 300−800
- Adult (24″+): 1,500−5,000+
- Premium “Blood Red” Variants: Up to $20,000
Common Health Issues
Be prepared to address:
🛑 Drop Eye (Surface-dwelling condition)
🛑 Fin Rot (Poor water quality)
🛑 Scale Damage (Tank collisions)
Quarantine new fish for 4-6 weeks
Advanced Care Tips
- Color Enhancement: Use black substrate and side lighting
- Exercise: Create gentle current for swimming
- Enrichment: Occasionally vary food presentation
Is a Golden Arowana Right for You?
Choose this fish if you:
- Can commit to 15+ years of care
- Have space for a massive aquarium
- Understand advanced fishkeeping
Reconsider if you:
- Want a community tank
- Have budget constraints
- Prefer low-maintenance pets
Final Thoughts
To buy Golden Arowana is to own a living masterpiece. While their care demands expertise, the reward is one of the aquarium world’s most majestic creatures. At ExoticPetsCare.com, we provide ongoing support for Arowana owners at every stage.
Ready to begin your journey? Contact our aquatic specialists for personalized guidance on selecting and caring for your Golden Arowana.
Note: All specimens sold come with proper CITES certification and health guarantees.
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