The arowana is a species of freshwater bony fish. It includes several extant species from Africa, Asia, South America, and Australia. There are at least five extinct genera known only from fossils. These date as far back as the Late Jurassic/Early Cretaceous period. They grow rather rapidly and can outgrow an aquarium in 8-10 months. It would do well in an aquarium of at least 150 gal. The arowana can reach lengths of 2-3 feet in captivity and up to 4 feet in the wild.

Giant arowana

They do not pair well in aquariums with very many fish. Some compatible species are the clown knifefish, pacu, oscars, jaguar cichlids, green terrors, gar, tinfoil barb, and Siamese tigerfish. The arowana is carnivorous, so it is better to have companion fish too large for its mouth. Other than breeding or raising young, they are solitary fish. They build nests to protect their young. All species are mouthbrooders, sometimes holding hundreds of eggs in their mouths.  Even after hatching, the young will find refuge in their parent’s mouths, darting out only to explore briefly.

They are specialized surface feeders. They can leap six feet out of the water to snatch birds and insects from overhanging branches. They will often feed on small rodents if opportunity presents itself.

https://youtu.be/UFIfV3QSIX0

Because of their prehistoric appearance, they are popular among the aquarium community. The arowana is often seen in Asian restaurants in huge aquariums. Even in aquariums, they float near the surface and have been known to leap out of the tank. Owners must be diligent about weighing down the top of the aquarium. It seems this fish is hardwired to jump and will do so whether in the wild or not. In the wild, it isn’t uncommon for the arowana to leap from one body of water to a neighboring one if they are close enough.

If you are considering one of these as a pet, keep in mind that diligent aquarium cleaning is essential due to their aggressive and messy eating habits.