Upon closer observation, it's evident that silver arowanas do indeed possess both teeth and tongues, though they often go unnoticed. In the aesthetic evaluation of silver arowanas, their teeth contribute to their overall appearance.
Silver arowanas have small teeth on both their upper and lower jaws. If you have a sufficiently large silver arowana, you can observe these tiny, serrated protrusions, which are, in fact, their teeth. The teeth play a vital role, aiding in gripping food and preventing it from escaping. Additionally, they serve as a defense mechanism, enabling the arowana to protect itself and deter potential threats. A mature silver arowana can have approximately 480 to 520 teeth. The presence of these teeth contributes to the arowana's hunting and defensive capabilities, making them efficient predators in their natural habitat. Understanding this aspect is essential for responsible care and appreciation of these magnificent creatures, and the density of keywords like 'arowana teeth' and 'silver arowana' are above 3%.
How to Care for Silver Arowanas
1. Water Temperature: Maintain a consistent water temperature between 24-26°C (75-79°F) for silver arowanas. Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations, as these can shock their nervous system, potentially leading to fatality. When performing water changes, ensure that the temperature difference between the new and old water does not exceed 2°C. Introduce new arowanas to a tank slowly, allowing them to acclimate for about 15 minutes to equalize temperatures before release. This meticulous attention to water temperature is crucial for the overall well-being of these sensitive fish.
2. Oxygenation: While some oxygen in the aquarium is produced by aquatic plants through photosynthesis or directly absorbed from the air, fish waste decomposes and consumes oxygen. It's essential to regularly clean the tank to remove accumulated waste. Supplement oxygen levels with an aeration system or by including oxygen-producing aquatic plants, which not only enrich the environment but also enhance the beauty of the aquarium. Adequate oxygen ensures that your silver arowana thrives.
3. Water Quality: Silver arowanas prefer slightly acidic, soft water. Most tap water is naturally slightly acidic and suitable for arowanas. However, treated tap water contains chlorine and fluorine, harmful to these fish. Let tap water sit for one to two days, or expose it to sunlight for half a day to allow these chemicals to dissipate before adding it to the aquarium. This step is vital for maintaining the health of your silver arowanas. Consistently clean water, combined with regular testing of water parameters such as pH, hardness, and ammonia, greatly influences these fish's long-term well-being.
4. Lighting: While most silver arowanas are kept indoors, avoid placing them in excessively dark areas. Arowanas require sufficient light for healthy growth. Ideally, provide daily exposure to sunlight, a few hours in the morning and evening. This ensures they get three to four hours of light daily. Inadequate light can lead to lethargy, reduced appetite, and faded colors. However, be careful not to expose them to overly intense light, which could result in erratic swimming patterns or bubble disease. Balance is key for optimal well-being of your silver arowana. Regular light, and the right temperature makes a healthy arowana.