🐟 Black Arowana (Osteoglossum ferreirai)
🐟 Black Arowana (Osteoglossum ferreirai)
Freshwater Fish • Surface Predator • River Cruiser • Show Species
📋 The Black Arowana (Osteoglossum ferreirai) is one of the most graceful and sought-after freshwater predators in the aquarium world. Known for its metallic body sheen and jet-black juvenile coloration that fades to silvery hues as it matures, this species embodies elegance and power.
Native to the Rio Negro Basin, it glides near the surface of slow-moving waters, hunting insects, small fish, and crustaceans. Its long, slender body, large pectoral fins, and upturned mouth make it perfectly adapted to surface feeding.
As an adult, the Black Arowana commands presence in any display aquarium. With proper care, pristine water conditions, and a balanced carnivorous diet, it can thrive for decades as a living legend of the Amazon.
💡 Highlights
✨ Black Juvenile Phase: Distinctive deep-black young form with silver-blue tones
⚪ Surface Hunter: Jumps and feeds at the water surface like a dragonfish
📏 Large Display Predator: Can exceed 35" in adulthood
✅ Captive-Bred Available: Farm-bred juveniles ensure sustainability
🐟 Iconic Freshwater Showpiece: A centerpiece for luxury aquaria
🧾 A Quick Look at the Black Arowana
📛 Common Name: Black Arowana
🔬 Scientific Name: Osteoglossum ferreirai
👨👩👧 Family: Osteoglossidae
🌍 Origin: South America • Negro River Basin • Brazil • Colombia
📏 Max Size: 90 cm (≈ 35")
💧 pH Range: 6.0–7.2
🌡️ Temperature Range: 26–30 °C (79–86 °F)
🧠 Care Level: Advanced
💖 Temperament: Semi-Aggressive (predatory)
🏠 Min Tank Size: 750 L (200 US gallons)
📌 Tank Level: Surface to Mid
🧬 Captive Bred: ✅ Yes from Asian and South American breeders
🌿 Wild Caught: ❌ No
⏳ Lifespan: 15–20 years
🍽️ Diet: Carnivore (live and frozen foods)
🐣 Reproduction: Mouthbrooder; male incubates eggs and fry

















