Silver Arowana (Osteoglossum bicirrhosum) is a advanced-level freshwater fish that needs at least 250 gallons and 75-86°F. A giant surface-dwelling predator that can jump straight through gaps in a lid. Needs a very large tank with a heavy, secure cover, and it will eat anything it can swallow.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Osteoglossum bicirrhosum |
|---|---|
| Family | Osteoglossidae |
| Origin | Amazon basin, South America |
| Adult size | 30-36 in |
| Minimum tank | 250 gallons |
| Temperature | 75-86°F |
| pH | 6.0-7.0 |
| Temperament | Aggressive and predatory |
| Social behavior | Solitary |
| Swim level | Top |
| Difficulty | Advanced |
| Diet | Carnivore: pellets, frozen fish and insects |
| Typical lifespan | 10-15+ years |
Quick tips
- Secure, heavy lid; they jump.
- Needs a very large tank as an adult.
- Tankmates must be large enough not to be eaten.
San Diego water
Prefers softer, more acidic water than San Diego's tap (pH roughly 7.6-8.6, hard). Most keepers blend tap with RO/DI water or use a remineralized RO/DI supply. Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi