Arowana Tank Mates: 22 Stunning Companions
Ever wondered what companions your majestic Arowana would thrive with in its watery kingdom? Dive in with us as we explore the world of Arowana tank mates in this captivating blog post!
Just like the legendary Asian dragons they resemble, Arowanas are powerful and territorial, making their cohabitation a thrilling challenge.
We have carefully curated a list of 22 spectacular tank mates, each with unique qualities that complement our water-dwelling dragon. This isn’t just about keeping the peace in your aquarium; it’s about creating a harmonious underwater world full of wonder. Ready for the adventure? Let’s plunge in!
Do Arowana Need Tank Mates?
Arowana fish can be kept as solitary species in a dedicated tank or as part of a community aquarium with compatible tank mates. Whether or not Arowanas need tank mates is a matter of personal preference. Here are a few considerations:
- Solitary Nature: In the wild, Arowanas are solitary fish and can thrive on their own. They are known for their territorial behavior and can become aggressive towards tank mates if they feel their space is invaded.
- Enrichment and Stimulation: Arowanas are intelligent and active fish. Some aquarists believe that introducing compatible tank mates can provide additional stimulation and enrichment for the Arowana, reducing potential stress or boredom.
- Tank Size and Compatibility: Arowanas are large fish that require spacious tanks. If you decide to add tank mates, ensure that the tank is adequately sized to accommodate all the fish comfortably. Additionally, choose tank mates that are compatible in terms of size, temperament, and water parameter requirements.
Ultimately, the decision to keep Arowanas with tank mates depends on the aquarist’s preferences, the available tank size, and the ability to provide proper care and maintenance for both the Arowana and the chosen tank mates.
Factors for Selecting Arowana Tank Mates
When considering a tank mate for Arowanas, there are several factors to keep in mind:
- Size: Arowanas can grow quite large, often reaching lengths of up to 3 feet in captivity. Smaller fish species might not be able to cope alongside Arowanas even if they meet all requirements otherwise. They might even be seen as prey by the Arowana. Therefore, it’s recommended to choose tank mates that can grow to a substantial size to prevent predation.
- Temperament: Arowanas can be territorial, especially when it comes to food. Tank mates should be able to hold their own in the presence of an Arowana and should not be overly aggressive to avoid unnecessary conflicts.
- Diet Compatibility: Arowana fish are carnivorous and feed on a diet of insects and small fish. It’s crucial to ensure that the dietary needs of potential tank mates are compatible, so one species isn’t outcompeting the other for food.
- Water Conditions: Arowanas typically prefer warm water with a pH of 6.0-7.0. Any potential tank mates should also thrive in these conditions.
- Vertical Space Usage: Arowanas are surface dwellers. They occupy the top layer of the aquarium, leaping out of the water for food. Therefore, fish that inhabit the middle or bottom layers of the tank may be best to ensure all fish have their own space and to minimize possible territorial disputes.
- Origin and Habitat: Considering the natural habitat and geographic origin of potential tank mates can provide valuable insights into compatibility. For example, fish from similar geographic regions or habitats are more likely to share similar water, temperature, and dietary preferences.
- Aesthetics: Sometimes keeping certain fish species together just makes the overall aquarium display look visually appealing. Factors like contrasting colors, interesting fin shapes, markings, etc. play a role here. But these attributes don’t affect survivability so they aren’t critical.
In this blog post, we delve into potential tank mates for your Arowana, carefully selected based on the factors described above including size, temperament, dietary needs, and habitat preference. We provide detailed insights into each species, helping you make the best decision for your aquarium setup.
Clown Loaches
| Scientific name | Chromobotia macracanthus |
| Origin | Southeast Asia |
| Size/Length | Up to 12 inches (approx. 30.5 cm) |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Schooling | Yes, minimum group size of 6 |
| Diet | Omnivorous, prefers invertebrates |
| Care level | Moderate |
| Minimum tank size | 100 gallons |
| Compatibility score | 4.5 out of 5 |
Known for their striking appearance, Clown Loaches are a dazzling spectacle in any aquarium. They display a vibrant orange body accentuated with bold, black, triangular patterns, delivering an impressive visual contrast when paired with Arowanas.
Clown Loaches grow large enough to hold their own against the substantial size of Arowanas, discouraging predation. Their peaceful temperament is conducive to a tranquil shared environment, even in the face of potentially territorial Arowanas.
The invertebrate-based diet of Clown Loaches doesn’t compete with the carnivorous diet of Arowanas, thereby ensuring a well-balanced feeding ecology.
As bottom dwellers, Clown Loaches efficiently utilize the vertical space in the tank, minimizing territorial disputes with the surface-dwelling Arowanas.
Hailing from the same geographic region of Southeast Asia, they share similar water condition preferences and thrive in warm, soft water. Considering all these factors, Clown Loaches achieve a high compatibility score of 4.5 out of 5.
Black Diamond Stingrays
| Scientific name | Potamotrygon leopoldi |
| Origin | South America |
| Size/Length | Up to 24 inches (approx. 61 cm) |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Schooling | No |
| Diet | Carnivorous |
| Care level | High |
| Minimum tank size | 200 gallons |
| Compatibility score | 4 out of 5 |
Black Diamond Stingrays make a stunning companion for Arowanas, contributing an elegant yet dramatic visual appeal to the aquarium. These stingrays are characterized by their nearly round, flat bodies marked with striking black and white spots, and their long, slender tails.
They can grow quite large, with a typical size akin to the Arowana, mitigating the risk of predation. While calm in demeanor, they can hold their own in the presence of a territorial Arowana.
Black Diamond Stingrays are carnivorous, a dietary trait they share with Arowanas, reducing competition for food. As bottom dwellers, they complement the surface-dwelling Arowanas well, avoiding disputes over vertical space.
Their shared preference for warm water and similar habitats with Arowanas further increases compatibility. Therefore, Black Diamond Stingrays achieve a compatibility score of 4 out of 5 with Arowanas.
Tiger Datnoids
| Scientific name | Datnioides microlepis |
| Origin | Southeast Asia |
| Size/Length | Up to 16 inches (41 cm) |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive |
| Schooling | No |
| Diet | Carnivorous |
| Care level | Medium |
| Minimum tank size | 150 gallons |
| Compatibility score | 4 out of 5 |
Tiger Datnoids, known for their striking stripes reminiscent of a tiger’s, make for intriguing tank mates for Arowanas. Their muscular bodies, ranging from yellow to gold, are offset by their dark vertical stripes. Growing up to 16 inches (around 41 centimeters), they present little risk of being perceived as prey by the substantially larger Arowana. Tiger Datnoids have a relatively peaceful temperament, capable of holding their own without exhibiting excessive aggression, an essential factor when cohabitating with Arowanas. Both species being carnivorous, their dietary needs align well. As middle to bottom dwellers in warm water, they complement Arowanas’ preference for the upper water layer, avoiding territorial disputes. Hailing from similar Southeast Asian habitats, their environmental needs are largely congruous, further enhancing compatibility. Taking these factors into account, Tiger Datnoids score a solid 4 out of 5 for compatibility with Arowanas.
Common Plecos
| Scientific name | Hypostomus plecostomus |
| Origin | South America |
| Size/Length | Up to 24 inches (Approximately 61 cm) |
| Temperament | Generally Peaceful |
| Schooling | No |
| Diet | Omnivorous (Primarily Herbivorous) |
| Care level | Moderate |
| Minimum tank size | 150 gallons |
| Compatibility score | 4 out of 5 |
Common Plecos, known for their flattened bodies and sucker-mouths, can make suitable tank mates for Arowanas. They can grow up to 24 inches (approximately 61 cm) in size, ensuring that Arowanas will not perceive them as prey. Generally peaceful, Plecos spend most of their time at the bottom of the tank, significantly reducing territorial conflicts with surface-dwelling Arowanas. They are primarily herbivorous, feeding on algae and other plant matter, which means they won’t compete with Arowanas for food. Plecos thrive in warm water with a similar pH range to Arowanas, which bolsters compatibility. Their fascinating appearance and nocturnal habits can enhance the overall aesthetics and dynamics of the tank. Due to these factors, Common Plecos earn a compatibility score of 4 out of 5 with Arowanas.
Pacu Fish
| Scientific name | Piaractus brachypomus |
| Origin | South America |
| Size/Length | Up to 35 inches (Approximately 89 cm) |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Schooling | No |
| Diet | Omnivorous |
| Care level | Moderate |
| Minimum tank size | 500 gallons |
| Compatibility score | 4 out of 5 |
The Pacu fish, distinguished by its rounded, silver body and human-like teeth, can make interesting tank mates for Arowanas, earning a compatibility score of 4 out of 5. They grow significantly large, reaching lengths of up to 35 inches (approximately 89 cm) in captivity, ensuring they aren’t seen as prey by the large Arowanas. Pacus share a relatively peaceful temperament, enabling them to hold their own without instigating conflicts. Being omnivorous, Pacus are less likely to compete with Arowanas for food. They thrive in warm, slightly acidic to neutral water, matching the Arowana’s preference. As mid to bottom dwellers, they reduce potential territorial disputes within the tank. Originating from South America, they have comparable habitat preferences to Arowanas. Lastly, the contrasting silver of the Pacu against the vibrant Arowana adds a visually appealing dynamic to the tank.
Peacock Bass
| Scientific name | Cichla ocellaris |
| Origin | Amazon Basin |
| Size/Length | Up to 29 inches (Approximately 74 cm) |
| Temperament | Peaceful but can be territorial |
| Schooling | No |
| Diet | Carnivorous |
| Care level | Intermediate to Expert |
| Minimum tank size | 200 gallons (Approximately 757 litres) |
| Compatibility score | 4 out of 5 |
Peacock Bass, also known as Cichla ocellaris, is an intriguing and visually striking species that may serve as a tank mate for Arowana. The species boasts a robust body with a beautiful mixture of green, gold, and black, and a distinctive black ‘eye-spot’ on its tail. Growing up to 29 inches (74 cm) in captivity, they hold their own in size against Arowanas and will not be perceived as prey. Native to the Amazon Basin, they share similar water parameters and dietary preferences with Arowanas. Peacock Bass are middle to bottom dwellers, complementing the surface-dwelling Arowanas. Despite their impressive size, they are generally peaceful but can show territorial behavior. For a harmonious coexistence, a sufficiently large tank is essential to avoid disputes. Considering these factors, they score a 4 out of 5 in terms of compatibility with Arowanas.
Bichir Fish
| Scientific name | Polypterus |
| Origin | Africa |
| Size/Length | Up to 24 inches (Approximately 61 cm) |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Schooling | No |
| Diet | Carnivorous |
| Care level | Moderate |
| Minimum tank size | 180 gallons (Approximately 680 litres) |
| Compatibility score | 4 out of 5 |
Bichir fish, scientifically known as Polypterus, are an excellent consideration for tank mates for Arowana. With their ancient, prehistoric appearance, Bichir fish are covered in thick, rhomboid scales, have a long body and a dorsal fin that runs down most of their back, giving them a unique dragon-like look. The size of Bichir fish, which can reach up to 30 inches (76 cm) in the wild and around 24 inches (61 cm) in captivity, makes them a suitable choice to cohabitate with large Arowana. As carnivores and bottom dwellers, Bichirs have a compatible diet and space usage with Arowanas. Originating from Africa, Bichirs thrive in warm water with similar pH levels as Arowana. However, their need for hiding spaces and a larger tank due to their size contributes to a compatibility score of 4 out of 5 with Arowana.
Redtail Catfish
| Scientific name | Phractocephalus hemioliopterus |
| Origin | South America |
| Size/Length | Up to 5 feet (Approximately 152 cm) |
| Temperament | Peaceful but can be aggressive when threatened |
| Schooling | No |
| Diet | Carnivorous |
| Care level | High |
| Minimum tank size | 1000 gallons (Approximately 3785 litres) |
| Compatibility score | 4 out of 5 |
Redtail Catfish (Phractocephalus hemioliopterus) can make fascinating tank mates for the Arowana. Characterized by their cylindrical bodies, dark coloration, and vivid red tail, they are both imposing and elegant. Redtail Catfish can reach lengths of up to 5 feet (152 cm) in the wild, making them large enough to not be seen as prey by the Arowana. They are generally peaceful but can become aggressive if they feel threatened. They are carnivorous, with a diet that can be complemented by the Arowana’s. These catfish thrive in similar warm water conditions and predominantly inhabit the bottom layer of the tank, leaving the top layer for the Arowana. However, due to their large size, they require very spacious tanks. Considering these factors, they score 4 in compatibility with the Arowana.
Severums
| Scientific name | Heros efasciatus |
| Origin | South America |
| Size/Length | Up to 8 inches (Approximately 20.32 cm) |
| Temperament | Peaceful to semi-aggressive |
| Schooling | No |
| Diet | Omnivorous |
| Care level | Medium |
| Minimum tank size | 55 gallons (Approximately 208 liters) |
| Compatibility score | 4 out of 5 |
Severums, also known as Heros efasciatus, are an intriguing choice for a tank mate for an Arowana. This South American cichlid species exhibits a vibrant color palette of yellows, reds, and greens, with unique circular markings that add to their visual appeal. Severums can grow up to 8 inches (20.32 cm) in captivity, making them a decent match in size for the larger Arowana. They typically reside in the middle and bottom sections of the aquarium, allowing for suitable vertical space usage with surface-dwelling Arowanas. Although somewhat territorial, they are generally peaceful, but can defend themselves if needed. Severums’ omnivorous diet aligns well with the carnivorous Arowana, preventing food competition. They thrive in warm water conditions similar to Arowanas. Considering these factors, Severums garner a compatibility score of 4 with Arowanas.
Fire Eels
| Scientific name | Mastacembelus erythrotaenia |
| Origin | Southeast Asia |
| Size/Length | Up to 3.3 feet (Approximately 100 cm) |
| Temperament | Generally peaceful |
| Schooling | No |
| Diet | Carnivorous |
| Care level | Medium to High |
| Minimum tank size | 200 gallons (Approximately 757 liters) |
| Compatibility score | 4 out of 5 |
Fire Eels, known scientifically as Mastacembelus erythrotaenia, provide an interesting dynamic as a potential tank mate for Arowanas. With a serpentine body, dorsal fin stretching its entire length, and vibrant red stripes and spots adorning its dark body, Fire Eels stand out due to their distinctive appearance. They can grow quite large – up to 3.3 feet (100 cm) – ensuring they won’t be seen as prey by an Arowana. Being bottom dwellers, they occupy different vertical spaces in the tank, avoiding conflict with surface-dwelling Arowanas. Fire Eels are generally peaceful but can stand up for themselves when necessary. They are carnivorous, like Arowanas, but their preference for live food mitigates competition. Their native tropical Asian habitats align with the Arowanas’ water condition preferences. Given these factors, Fire Eels have a compatibility score of 4 with Arowanas.
Banded Cichlids
| Scientific name | Heros severus |
| Origin | Amazon Basin |
| Size/Length | 8 inches (Approximately 20 cm) |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive |
| Schooling | No |
| Diet | Omnivorous |
| Care level | Intermediate |
| Minimum tank size | 55 gallons (Approximately 208 liters) |
| Compatibility score | 4 out of 5 |
Banded Cichlids, scientifically known as Heros severus, have a strikingly tall and disc-like body with distinctive dark stripes running horizontally across their silver-gray bodies. They can grow up to 8 inches (approximately 20 cm) in size, making them a viable tank mate for large Arowana fish. These fish are fairly peaceful, but they can hold their own against a territorial Arowana and they inhabit the mid to bottom layers of the tank, minimizing any territorial disputes. Although Banded Cichlids are omnivores, their preference for plant matter and small invertebrates doesn’t interfere with the Arowana’s carnivorous diet. Their similar tropical origins ensure comparable water conditions. Due to these factors, Banded Cichlids receive a compatibility score of 4.
Tinfoil Barbs
| Scientific name | Barbonymus schwanenfeldii |
| Origin | Southeast Asia |
| Size/Length | Up to 14 inches (Approximately 35 cm) |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Schooling | Yes, minimum group size: 5 |
| Diet | Omnivorous |
| Care level | Easy |
| Minimum tank size | 150 gallons (Approximately 567 litres) |
| Compatibility score | 3.5 out of 5 |
Tinfoil Barbs, scientific name Barbonymus schwanenfeldii, are a captivating choice for a tank mate for Arowana. Sporting a silver metallic body and red-tipped fins, Tinfoil Barbs can reach lengths up to 14 inches (approximately 35 cm) in a well-maintained aquarium, providing a substantial presence against the larger Arowana. Originating from Southeast Asia, Tinfoil Barbs share similar water conditions with Arowanas, prefering warm water with a pH of 6.0-7.0. These mid to bottom dwellers are schooling fish, creating a contrasting dynamic to the top dwelling Arowana. However, they require large groups for comfort and a large tank to accommodate them. Tinfoil Barbs being omnivores make diet compatibility easy to manage. Considering these factors, Tinfoil Barbs score a 3.5 out of 5 in compatibility with Arowana due to their size and schooling nature.
Blood Parrot Cichlids
| Scientific name | Cichlasoma sp. |
| Origin | Hybrid, captive bred |
| Size/Length | Up to 10 inches (25 cm) |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Schooling | No |
| Diet | Omnivorous |
| Care level | Medium |
| Minimum tank size | 55 gallons |
| Compatibility score | 3 out of 5 |
Blood Parrot Cichlids, characterized by their large, round bodies and vibrant red-orange color, can be intriguing yet challenging tank mates for Arowanas. The striking contrast of their bright hue against an Arowana’s more muted tones provides an appealing aesthetic. Their size, reaching up to 10 inches (approximately 25 cm), prevents them from being easy prey for Arowanas. However, Blood Parrot Cichlids’ docile temperament may put them at a disadvantage with territorial Arowanas. Both species have similar omnivorous diets, ensuring no direct competition for food. As they inhabit the middle to bottom water layers and prefer similar warm water conditions, their habitats do not overlap significantly with surface-dwelling Arowanas. Despite these shared preferences, Blood Parrot Cichlids’ peaceful nature and potential vulnerability to an Arowana’s assertiveness lead to a compatibility score of 3 out of 5.
Black Knife Fish
| Scientific name | Apteronotus albifrons |
| Origin | South America |
| Size/Length | Up to 20 inches (Approximately 50 cm) |
| Temperament | Shy, peaceful |
| Schooling | No |
| Diet | Carnivorous |
| Care level | Medium |
| Minimum tank size | 70 gallons |
| Compatibility score | 3 out of 5 |
Black Knife Fish, with their unique, elongated body shape and dark coloration, present a striking contrast to the Arowana’s more streamlined and colorful form. These nocturnal fish can grow up to 20 inches (around 50 cm) long, keeping them safe from being viewed as prey by an Arowana. Their natural shyness and nocturnal habits allow them to avoid much of the potential daytime conflicts with Arowanas, and their bottom-dwelling tendencies offer a separate layer of the tank for habitation. Both species are carnivorous, ensuring no outcompeting for specific food types. They thrive in similar warm water conditions, further supporting compatibility. However, their timid nature may lead to stress in the presence of an Arowana. Overall, despite their unique aesthetic appeal and shared habitat preferences, the compatibility score is a 3 out of 5 due to the Black Knife Fish’s timid nature.
Iridescent Sharks
| Scientific name | Pangasianodon hypophthalmus |
| Origin | Southeast Asia |
| Size/Length | Up to 47 inches (Approximately 120 cm) |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Schooling | Yes, 5 or more |
| Diet | Omnivorous |
| Care level | High |
| Minimum tank size | 300 gallons |
| Compatibility score | 3 out of 5 |
The Iridescent Shark, despite its name, is not a shark but a catfish, bearing a streamlined body and a silver iridescence that becomes more pronounced as the fish matures. They are suitable tank mates for Arowanas due to their similar size, growing up to 47 inches (approximately 120 cm) in a home aquarium. Their peaceful nature and preference for middle to bottom layers of the tank help reduce conflicts with the territorial Arowana. Both species share carnivorous diet preferences, yet the varied diet of the Iridescent Shark (including crustaceans and plant matter) can help prevent competition. They thrive in similar water conditions as Arowanas, preferring warm, slightly acidic to neutral water. Although they originate from different habitats, both species can adapt well to shared conditions. The Iridescent Shark earns a compatibility score of 3 out of 5 due to its requirement for ample space and propensity to become easily stressed.
Silver Dollar Fish
| Scientific name | Metynnis argenteus |
| Origin | South America |
| Size/Length | Up to 6 inches (Approximately 15 cm) |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Schooling | Yes, minimum group size of 5 |
| Diet | Herbivorous |
| Care level | Easy |
| Minimum tank size | 75 gallons |
| Compatibility score | 3 out of 5 |
The Silver Dollar fish, known for its round, silver body, similar to a large silver coin, scores a 3 out of 5 in terms of compatibility with Arowana. These peaceful fish grow to an average size of 6 inches (approximately 15 cm) in captivity, which might pose a risk as they could be seen as prey by larger Arowanas. However, their schooling nature provides some safety, with a minimum group size of five fish recommended. Silver Dollars are primarily herbivorous, reducing food competition with carnivorous Arowanas. They thrive in similar water conditions as Arowanas – warm and slightly acidic to neutral. As mid-dwellers, they can cohabit with the top-dwelling Arowanas, minimizing territorial disputes. Both species originate from South America, increasing their compatibility. The contrasting silver hue of Silver Dollar fish against Arowanas adds to the tank’s aesthetic appeal.
Firemouth Cichlids
| Scientific name | Thorichthys meeki |
| Origin | Central America |
| Size/Length | Up to 6 inches (Approximately 15 cm) |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive |
| Schooling | No |
| Diet | Omnivorous |
| Care level | Medium |
| Minimum tank size | 30 gallons (Approximately 114 litres) |
| Compatibility score | 3 out of 5 |
The Firemouth Cichlid, scientifically known as Thorichthys meeki, is a visually striking species adorned with a vibrant red-orange coloration on its underside, reminiscent of a blazing fire – a feature that gives this fish its name. Growing to around 6 inches (15 cm), this Central American native fish can be a suitable tankmate for Arowana due to its size and lower-to-mid water column occupation. The Firemouth Cichlid is somewhat territorial but typically less aggressive compared to other Cichlids, which makes it a possible candidate for cohabitation with Arowanas. They are omnivorous and are not likely to compete with Arowana for food. Their preference for slightly acidic to neutral water conditions aligns well with Arowanas. Considering all aspects, the compatibility score is 3 out of 5, with caution required due to their semi-aggressive nature.
Oscar Fish
| Scientific name | Astronotus ocellatus |
| Origin | Amazon River Basin |
| Size/Length | Up to 14 inches (Approximately 35 cm) |
| Temperament | Assertive |
| Schooling | No |
| Diet | Carnivorous |
| Care level | Intermediate |
| Minimum tank size | 75 gallons (Approximately 284 litres) |
| Compatibility score | 3 out of 5 |
The Oscar Fish (Astronotus ocellatus) is a large, robust, and stunning fish that could potentially share a tank with an Arowana. With its striking mix of orange, black, and white colors, an Oscar is a visual delight. Originating from the Amazon River basin, they thrive in similar water conditions as Arowanas and can grow to a considerable size of up to 14 inches (35 cm), making them less likely to be seen as prey. They are carnivorous and will eat a similar diet as an Arowana, though with enough space, food competition can be minimized. Oscars tend to inhabit the middle and bottom layers of a tank, providing good vertical space usage. However, they do have an assertive temperament, which might lead to territorial disputes. Therefore, the compatibility score with Arowanas is 3 out of 5.
Bala Sharks
| Scientific name | Balantiocheilos melanopterus |
| Origin | Southeast Asia |
| Size/Length | Up to 14 inches (Approximately 35.5 cm) |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Schooling | Yes, minimum group of 5 |
| Diet | Omnivorous |
| Care level | Moderate |
| Minimum tank size | 150 gallons (Approximately 567 litres) |
| Compatibility score | 3 out of 5 |
Bala Sharks, or Balantiocheilos melanopterus, are visually striking with their elongated, torpedo-shaped bodies, silver coloration, and black-tipped fins that lend to their “shark-like” appearance. However, they are actually cyprinids, more related to carps and minnows. Known to reach 14 inches (35.5 cm) in length in a home aquarium, Bala Sharks would not easily become a meal for an Arowana. They’re active swimmers, predominantly inhabiting the middle and bottom parts of the tank, thus giving the Arowana its required top-dwelling space. Bala Sharks are omnivores and wouldn’t compete with the carnivorous Arowana for food. As Southeast Asian natives, they prefer warm waters with a similar pH to that enjoyed by Arowanas. However, Bala Sharks are schooling fish, requiring a group of at least 5, and their active nature requires a spacious tank. Hence, their compatibility score with Arowana is 3.
Red Belly Pacu
| Scientific name | Piaractus brachypomus |
| Origin | South America |
| Size/Length | Up to 30 inches (Approximately 76 cm) |
| Temperament | Generally peaceful, territorial in crowds |
| Schooling | No |
| Diet | Omnivorous (primarily fruits, nuts, and vegetation) |
| Care level | Moderate |
| Minimum tank size | 250 gallons (Approximately 946 litres) |
| Compatibility score | 3 out of 5 |
Red Belly Pacu (Piaractus brachypomus) makes for an intriguing tank mate for the Arowana. Noted for its distinguishing bright red belly and round body shape, this fish presents a vibrant aesthetic that can complement the sleek Arowana. The Red Belly Pacu can grow up to 30 inches (76 cm) in captivity, which means it can comfortably live alongside the large Arowana without being viewed as prey. In terms of temperament, they are generally peaceful but may become territorial in crowded conditions. The diet of the Red Belly Pacu primarily consists of fruits, nuts, and vegetation, making it compatible with the carnivorous Arowana. The Pacu prefers similar warm water conditions and occupies the mid to bottom layers of the tank, complementing the Arowana’s surface-dwelling habits. However, they require a very large tank due to their size, leading to a compatibility score of 3.
Flowerhorn Cichlids
| Scientific name | Hybrid of the Cichlasoma genus |
| Origin | Man-made hybrid |
| Size/Length | Up to 16 inches (Approximately 40.6 cm) |
| Temperament | Aggressive |
| Schooling | No |
| Diet | Omnivorous |
| Care level | High |
| Minimum tank size | 75 gallons (Approximately 284 liters) |
| Compatibility score | 3 out of 5 |
The Flowerhorn Cichlid, known scientifically as a hybrid of the Cichlasoma genus, is a vibrant and uniquely shaped fish that could potentially share a tank with an Arowana. Flowerhorn Cichlids feature a spectacularly large hump on their heads, brilliant colors, and intricate patterns. Reaching up to 16 inches (40.6 cm) in size, they are large enough to coexist with an Arowana without being perceived as prey. However, they are known for their aggressive temperament, which could lead to conflicts over territory and food. They are omnivores and have similar dietary and water conditions requirements as Arowanas. As Flowerhorns occupy the middle layer of the tank, there is spatial compatibility with surface-dwelling Arowanas. Given their aggressive nature and potential to provoke conflict, they score a compatibility of 3 with Arowanas.
Florida Gars
| Scientific name | Lepisosteus platyrhincus |
| Origin | Florida, USA |
| Size/Length | Up to 30 inches / 76 cm |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive |
| Schooling | No |
| Diet | Carnivorous |
| Care level | Intermediate |
| Minimum tank size | 300 gallons / 1136 litres |
| Compatibility score | 3 |
Florida Gars (Lepisosteus platyrhincus) are an interesting choice as a tank mate for Arowana. These prehistoric-looking fish, growing up to 30 inches (76 cm) long, are characterized by their elongated, cylindrical bodies and broad, short snouts filled with sharp teeth, making them unlikely to be perceived as prey by Arowanas. They dwell in the middle and surface layers of water, which may lead to some territorial disputes with Arowanas. Florida Gars are carnivorous like Arowanas, and neither should outcompete the other for food. As natives of Florida’s warm freshwater systems, their water conditions align with Arowanas’ preference for warm, slightly acidic water. However, their territorial nature and overlapping space usage with Arowanas necessitate close monitoring and ample space in the aquarium to minimize conflicts. For these reasons, Florida Gars receive a compatibility score of 3 with Arowanas.
