Fin's Fish Guide
The Asian arowana (Scleropages formosus) is a freshwater fish of the family Osteoglossidae that grows up to 90 cm.
Description
The Asian arowana is a large, striking freshwater fish from Southeast Asia, ranging from southern Myanmar through the Malay Peninsula to Indonesia and eastern Thailand. The species grows to about 90 cm and has an elongate body with large, glossy scales, a far rearward-set dorsal fin, a large upturned mouth with a pair of barbels, and colour morphs from green through gold to red. It lives in blackwater streams and forested waters and hunts insects and fish at the surface; the male incubates the eggs in his mouth. The species is a highly prized, valuable ornamental fish. Through overexploitation and habitat loss it is listed as Endangered (EN) on the IUCN Red List and is covered by CITES Appendix I.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Asian arowana?
The Asian arowana has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly multicoloured and shows a plain pattern. Large glossy scales and barbels; paternal mouthbrooder; costly ornamental fish (CITES I)
Where does the Asian arowana live?
The Asian arowana lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southeast Asia
How big does the Asian arowana get?
The Asian arowana grows to a maximum of about 90 cm.
Is the Asian arowana dangerous to humans?
No, the Asian arowana is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Asian arowana edible?
The Asian arowana is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Scleropages
More from the family Osteoglossidae
Want the complete picture on the Asian arowana?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Asian arowana is one of 12,519 species in the app.