Bloodworms, also known as glass worms or midge larvae, are a popular and nutritious food choice for silver arowanas. When feeding live bloodworms, a convenient method is to place them in a plastic feeder within the tank, allowing your arowana to hunt them naturally. If using frozen bloodworms, it's essential to thaw them thoroughly and chop them into smaller, more manageable pieces before introducing them to the tank.
A balanced diet for your silver arowana should primarily consist of meaty foods. This includes options like small fish, shrimp, loaches, mealworms, bloodworms, and even small pieces of beef. Among these various options, bloodworms often stand out as a particular favorite for arowanas. When offering live bloodworms, using a plastic feeder allows your arowana to engage its natural predatory instincts. For frozen bloodworms, remember to thaw and chop them into bite-sized portions for easy consumption. Always prioritize cleaning the food thoroughly before feeding to prevent parasitic infections in your arowana. These methods ensure your arowana gets the best nutrition from its preferred treat: bloodworms.
Key Considerations for Silver Arowana Care
1. Maintaining Optimal Water Temperature and Quality
Silver arowanas are tropical freshwater fish that thrive in stable conditions. Aim to maintain a consistent water temperature around 82 degrees Fahrenheit (28 degrees Celsius) throughout the year. A reliable aquarium heater is vital for this. In addition, ensure the water is clean to avoid skin problems in your arowana. When performing water changes, make them gradual rather than abrupt; changing all the water at once can shock the fish. Regular partial water changes, are crucial.
2. Controlled Feeding Schedules
Avoid feeding your arowana common fish pellets as a primary source of food. Instead, provide a diet of live or fresh foods such as small fish, shrimp, centipedes, and earthworms. Feed your arowana twice daily, once in the morning and once in the evening, adjusting portions to their needs. Be cautious not to overfeed to prevent obesity. Arowanas generally eat for about ten minutes; promptly remove any uneaten food to maintain water quality and prevent spikes in ammonia levels.
3. Choosing an Appropriately Sized Aquarium
Silver arowanas grow quite large. Keeping multiple arowanas together in a cramped space can lead to aggression and injuries. To avoid fighting and provide each fish adequate space, it is advisable to house each arowana in its own aquarium. A larger tank is vital to allow your arowana to swim and thrive.
4. Minimizing Stress and Disturbances
Silver arowanas are relatively timid and can be easily startled. Stress can cause them to become inactive, hide away, and possibly injure themselves. When visitors are in your home, make sure they avoid approaching the aquarium too closely or making sudden movements near the tank. These fish thrive in calm environments.