Black Arowana (Osteoglossum Ferreirai)
Black Arowana (Osteoglossum ferreirai)
The Black Arowana is one of the most unique and elegant arowana species available, prized for its dramatic transformation from a jet-black juvenile into a sleek, metallic adult. Native to the Rio Negro and surrounding Amazonian blackwater systems, this species is known for its elongated body, smooth swimming motion, and surface-hunting behavior. Compared to other arowanas, the Black Arowana offers a more refined and understated look, making it a standout centerpiece for large aquariums.
Diet
Black Arowanas are carnivorous surface feeders:
- Floating pellets (can be trained; staple diet)
- Insects (crickets, mealworms)
- Shrimp, prawns, and fish
- Frozen foods (krill, silversides)
A varied, high-protein diet supports growth and coloration.
Tank Requirements
- Minimum Tank Size: 180–250 gallons
- Water Type: Freshwater (prefers soft, acidic conditions)
- Temperature: 75–82°F
- pH: 5.0–7.0
- Setup: Long tank with open swimming space; dim lighting; tight-fitting lid required (excellent jumpers)
Blackwater-style setups enhance comfort and coloration.
Size
- Current Sale Size: Typically 4–8 inches
Max Size
- Maximum Adult Size: 30–36 inches
Tank Mates
Generally more manageable than Jardini Arowanas but still predatory:
- Compatible: Large, peaceful to semi-aggressive fish such as datnoids, stingrays, larger catfish, and silver dollars
- Use caution: With aggressive or fin-nipping species
- Avoid: Small fish (will be eaten) and overly aggressive tank mates
Best kept with similarly sized, non-aggressive species.
Temperament
Semi-aggressive. Typically calmer than Jardini Arowanas, but still territorial and predatory. Very interactive and responsive to their environment.
⚠️ Important Note
Juveniles display a deep black coloration that gradually fades into a lighter, metallic tone as they mature—this natural transformation is part of the species’ appeal.
Original: $90.00
-65%$90.00
$31.50
Description
Black Arowana (Osteoglossum ferreirai)
The Black Arowana is one of the most unique and elegant arowana species available, prized for its dramatic transformation from a jet-black juvenile into a sleek, metallic adult. Native to the Rio Negro and surrounding Amazonian blackwater systems, this species is known for its elongated body, smooth swimming motion, and surface-hunting behavior. Compared to other arowanas, the Black Arowana offers a more refined and understated look, making it a standout centerpiece for large aquariums.
Diet
Black Arowanas are carnivorous surface feeders:
- Floating pellets (can be trained; staple diet)
- Insects (crickets, mealworms)
- Shrimp, prawns, and fish
- Frozen foods (krill, silversides)
A varied, high-protein diet supports growth and coloration.
Tank Requirements
- Minimum Tank Size: 180–250 gallons
- Water Type: Freshwater (prefers soft, acidic conditions)
- Temperature: 75–82°F
- pH: 5.0–7.0
- Setup: Long tank with open swimming space; dim lighting; tight-fitting lid required (excellent jumpers)
Blackwater-style setups enhance comfort and coloration.
Size
- Current Sale Size: Typically 4–8 inches
Max Size
- Maximum Adult Size: 30–36 inches
Tank Mates
Generally more manageable than Jardini Arowanas but still predatory:
- Compatible: Large, peaceful to semi-aggressive fish such as datnoids, stingrays, larger catfish, and silver dollars
- Use caution: With aggressive or fin-nipping species
- Avoid: Small fish (will be eaten) and overly aggressive tank mates
Best kept with similarly sized, non-aggressive species.
Temperament
Semi-aggressive. Typically calmer than Jardini Arowanas, but still territorial and predatory. Very interactive and responsive to their environment.
⚠️ Important Note
Juveniles display a deep black coloration that gradually fades into a lighter, metallic tone as they mature—this natural transformation is part of the species’ appeal.
