The flat, silver fish you're likely thinking of is the Silver Arowana. This species is a large freshwater fish prized for its striking appearance, making it a popular choice among aquarium enthusiasts. However, it's important to note that Silver Arowanas are primarily carnivorous, feeding on fish, shrimp, and shellfish. They are also territorial and can be aggressive, particularly during feeding times, as they may perceive your presence as an intrusion into their space. Therefore, caution is advised when feeding them.
Arowanas are tropical ornamental fish categorized by lineage and region, including Asian, American, Australian, and African Arowanas. They are also classified by scale color, such as red, gold, green, silver, and black. Generally, among all Arowana varieties, the Golden and Red Arowanas are considered the most desirable and often command the highest prices. Silver Arowanas, often kept as feng shui fish due to their good symbolism and lower price point compared to Golden and Red Arowanas, are also very popular among aquarists.
Five Types of Arowana Fish
Here’s a closer look at five popular types of Arowana:
1. Red Arowana
The Chili Red Arowana is considered the best among red Arowanas. Its scales are pinkish, and its head is more pointed. Coloration begins on the gill covers. The timing, speed, and depth of color on the gill covers determine the overall coloration of the fish. Thus, the gill covers are crucial when selecting a Red Arowana, along with body shape and overall health.
2. Golden Arowana
The Golden Arowana is highly sought after. Many aquarists strive to own a Golden Arowana with six full rows of shimmering scales. When assessing a Golden Arowana, the shine of the pearl scales is as important as its back development. Choosing a fish with full pearl scale shine over one with better back development but only half the pearl scale shine is a wiser choice because the former's long-term development is better. Fully developed sixth row scales are prone to blackening or "anti-dirt" phenomenon.
3. Green Arowana
Green Arowanas are relatively affordable and smaller than other Arowana species, with a round, small head. Mature Green Arowanas have silver gill covers and are known for their gentle temperament, making them suitable for community tanks.
4. Silver Arowana
A rare variation of the Silver Arowana is the Snow Arowana, which has an all-white body. Silver Arowanas are medium to large freshwater fish with silvery-white, shimmering bodies. They thrive in slightly acidic water conditions; maintaining good water quality is key to their health.
5. Black Arowana
The Black Arowana is similar in shape to the Silver Arowana. As they mature, their bodies turn black with a slight blue tinge, making them very visually appealing.