Arowanas are very beautiful, large freshwater fish with gorgeous colors and a majestic display. However, finding compatible tank mates for these aggressive predators is challenging. For Arowanas, they need special care, plenty of space, and very compatible tank mates that wouldn’t feel threatened or get overpowered. Here is a list of the top 10 best tank mates for Arowanas, along with answers to common questions about their compatibility.
1. Silver Dollar Fish
Silver Dollar Fish is an active fish that is so sturdy; it can peacefully co-exist in the same community tank with an Arowana. These come in two different sizes. So, the two speeds make sure the larger fish of those varieties will avoid competition simply because they move fast enough. And that doesn’t invite larger fish with the same abilities to confront.
2. Clown Loach
Since bottom-dwellers have less interactions with the space of the top dwellers like an Arowana, not even the beautiful and highly visible display that these are known to bring into an aquarium has such a bad effect as it does on the peaceful natures of both the subjects.
3. Bichir
The Bichir is an aquatic nocturnal fish that seems prehistoric. It is one of the very docile fish and compatible with Arowanas and of similar nature as they only lie on the bottom of the tank.
4. Large Plecos
Plecos, particularly the larger ones, such as Common Pleco, can cohabitate with Arowanas as they have a strong cover and lie on the bottom of the tank. They are useful in that they scrape algae off the sides of the tank.
5. Oscars
These fish are large, aggressive enough to be compatible with Arowanas. They don’t mind their size, and they also share similar temperaments. That makes them one of the favorites of Arowana aquarists to keep together in the same tank.
6. Green Terror Cichlid
Green Terrors are known for being extremely colorful and eccentric. For an Arowana’s aquarium, these cichlids will bring lots of drama and life. These can adjust to the temperament of an Arowana, but lots of space is required.
7. Peacock Bass
Peacock Bass is another large, carnivorous fish that can thrive along with Arowanas. The former is an active swimmer and has almost similar water requirements, hence will make a good balancing pair.
8. Blood Parrot Fish
Blood Parrots are relatively non-aggressive and peaceful. Therefore, they can be quite companionable with Arowanas. They usually shy away from confrontations and spend their time in the middle parts of the tank.
9. Fire Eel
Fire Eels are peaceful, bottom-dwelling fishes that rarely come into interaction with Arowanas. They have an interesting feature and are quite docile which makes them perfect tank mates.
10. Severum Cichlid
Severum Cichlids are friendly and adaptative. They are large, so they won’t make a prey for Arowanas, and generally get on well with other species in the aquarium.
Tips in Setting up an Arowana Tank with Mates
- Tank Size: Large tanks with at least 150 gallons capacity are required to host a number of large fish.
- Filtration: A good filtration system will be needed to deal with the bioload from larger fish.
- Aquascaping: As few decorations as possible should be left free for swimming space, particularly on top where Arowanas prefer to be.
- Feeding Habits: Each fish will have its diet requirements, and this may include pellets, frozen foods, and live prey.
Conclusion:
The water condition is supposed to be as clean to ensure the health of both the Arowanas and any other fishes that might find themselves being kept in this tank.
This can be attained through proper selection of the tank mates and adequate space and maintenance of the environment. With large, resilient, and peaceful tankmates such as those in this list, you will be able to create a thriving aquarium that is dynamic and features the beauty of Arowanas with compatible species.
FAQs (frequently-asked questions)
The minimum of 150-200 gallons is recommended to house an Arowana, especially when it’s to be housed with other big fishes.
Small fish should not be housed with an Arowana since they are food to it. Instead, larger fish that can accommodate the temperament of the Arowana would be the best choice.
Arowanas tend to be territorial, depending on the crowdedness of your tank. Ample space, plenty of hiding places, and other well-suited tankmates will help keep aggression at bay.
Monitor their interactions closely when introduced. Look for signs of stress, aggression, or hiding in the fish. If problems persist, separate the two fish for a period of time.
Water changes: An Arowana fish requires regular change of the water. Commonly it should be changed every week but 20-30%.
