Lucky Dragon Fish: 10 Essential Tips Before Bringing Home an Arowana

Known as the “dragon fish” for their shimmering scales and majestic presence, Arowanas are revered in many cultures, particularly in Feng Shui, as symbols of wealth, prosperity, and good luck. Native to South America, Asia, Australia, and Africa, these prehistoric-looking fish are a prized addition to aquariums but come with significant responsibilities. Before you invest in an Arowana, whether for its symbolic value or stunning beauty, here are 10 critical things to know to ensure its health and your success as an aquarist. From tank requirements to legal considerations, this guide covers it all.

1. Arowanas Are a Symbol of Prosperity

In Feng Shui, the Arowana, often called the “golden dragon,” is believed to attract wealth, health, and positive energy due to its resemblance to the Chinese dragon, with metallic scales and flowing barbels. According to a 2021 article in Hindustan Times, placing an Arowana aquarium in the southeast sector of your home or office enhances financial luck. Fun Fact: Some believe a black Arowana absorbs negative energy, balancing the auspicious “rule of nine” (eight gold/red fish, one black) in Feng Shui. However, their luck-bringing reputation hinges on proper care—neglect could symbolically invite misfortune.

[](https://www.hindustantimes.com/astrology/vastu/vastu-tips-keep-arowana-fish-at-home-to-ward-off-evil-forces-101634530992040.html)

2. They Grow Large and Need Spacious Tanks

Arowanas can grow up to 3–4 feet long, depending on the species, with Silver Arowanas reaching 3 feet and some Asian varieties even larger. A 2025 Times of India article notes that a minimum 250-gallon tank is required for adults, with dimensions at least three times the fish’s length and twice its width to allow free movement. Juveniles may start in a 150-gallon tank, but you’ll need to upgrade as they grow 1–2 inches per month in their first year. Inadequate tank size can cause stress, deformities, or a shortened lifespan.

[](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/relationships/web-stories/10-things-to-know-before-getting-an-arowana-fish-for-good-luck/photostory/123072832.cms)[](https://fishcareguide.com/arowana-guide/)

Tip: Ensure the tank is wider than it is tall, as Arowanas are surface swimmers.

3. Arowanas Are Powerful Jumpers

Known for leaping out of water to catch prey in the wild, Arowanas are notorious jumpers in captivity, capable of smashing through glass lids. A 2023 PetMD care sheet emphasizes the need for a heavy, secure, acrylic lid, ideally weighted down, to prevent escapes or injuries. Place the tank in a quiet area away from sudden noises or bright lights to avoid startling the fish, which can trigger jumps.

[](https://www.petmd.com/fish/arowana-care-sheet)

Caution: A loose lid could lead to your Arowana ending up on the floor, a common cause of death.

4. They Require a Protein-Rich Diet

Arowanas are carnivorous predators, feeding on insects, shrimp, and small fish in the wild. In captivity, they need a varied diet of high-quality carnivore pellets, supplemented with live or frozen foods like shrimp, crickets, or small fish, per a 2025 Petco guide. Avoid goldfish, which are high in fat and may carry diseases. Feeding costs can be significant, with live food adding $10–$20 weekly. Overfeeding or poor nutrition can dull their vibrant colors and weaken their health.

[](https://www.petco.com/content/content-hub/home/articlePages/caresheets/arowana.html)

Tip: Feed juveniles twice daily, adults once daily, and ensure food is fresh to avoid digestive issues.

5. Arowanas Are Territorial and Solitary

Arowanas are aggressive and territorial, often intolerant of tank mates. A 2025 Times of India article advises keeping them alone or with large, bottom-dwelling species like catfish or plecostomus that won’t compete for surface space. Smaller fish risk being eaten, as Arowanas can swallow anything that fits in their large mouths. Juveniles may tolerate tank mates, but adults often become solitary, per Petco.

Caution: Monitor tank mates closely, as aggression can damage fins or lead to stress-related illnesses.

6. Water Quality Is Non-Negotiable

Arowanas are highly sensitive to water conditions, particularly nitrites and ammonia, which can cause stress or death. A 2023 PetMD care sheet recommends a powerful filtration system (at least 4x tank volume per hour, e.g., 600 GPH for a 150-gallon tank) and weekly water changes of 10–25%. Maintain a pH of 6.5–7.5 and temperature of 75–82°F. Test water regularly with a kit costing $10–$20. Poor water quality is a leading cause of Arowana health issues, including “drop eye,” where eyes tilt downward due to stress or genetics.

[](https://www.petmd.com/fish/arowana-care-sheet)[](https://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/forums/threads/do-you-want-an-arowana-then-read-this.329584/)

Tip: Use a canister or hang-on-back filter for effective mechanical, biological, and chemical filtration.

7. They’re Expensive and a Long-Term Commitment

Arowanas are among the priciest aquarium fish, with Silver Arowanas costing $50–$200 and rare Asian varieties like Platinum Arowanas reaching $430,000, per a 2024 A-Z Animals report. Maintenance—food, filters, electricity—can cost $500–$1,000 annually. With a lifespan of 10–20 years (up to 50 with optimal care), they’re a long-term investment. Ensure you’re financially prepared for both upfront and ongoing costs.

[](https://a-z-animals.com/animals/fish/fish-facts/asian-arowana-the-430k-fish-not-allowed-in-the-us/)[](https://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/forums/threads/do-you-want-an-arowana-then-read-this.329584/)

Fun Fact: Their high cost is tied to their luck-bringing reputation and rarity, especially for endangered Asian Arowanas.

8. Legal Restrictions Apply

Asian Arowanas (Scleropages formosus) are endangered and banned in the U.S. under a 1975 treaty signed by 183 countries, per A-Z Animals. They require special permits in countries like Thailand or Indonesia, and legal specimens are microchipped to verify captive breeding. Illegal trade carries hefty fines or jail time. Always verify local laws and buy from reputable breeders with proper documentation, especially for Asian varieties. Silver and Australian Arowanas face fewer restrictions but still require compliance with local regulations.

[](https://a-z-animals.com/animals/fish/fish-facts/asian-arowana-the-430k-fish-not-allowed-in-the-us/)

Caution: Avoid black-market sellers to prevent legal trouble and support conservation efforts.

9. Arowanas Need Minimal Tank Décor

Arowanas thrive in open swimming spaces, so keep aquascaping minimal. A 2023 Arowana.co guide suggests using secure driftwood or rocks without sharp edges to prevent injuries. Submerged plants should be firmly anchored to avoid toppling. Overcrowded tanks stress Arowanas and increase injury risks. Moderate LED lighting with a day/night cycle is ideal, as bright lights can cause stress or exacerbate “drop eye.”

[](https://arowana.co/pages/arowana-fish-the-majestic-dragon-of-the-aquarium-world)

Tip: Prioritize open space over decorations to mimic their natural, slow-moving river habitats.

10. Cultural Care Enhances Their Symbolism

In Feng Shui, Arowana placement is key to maximizing luck. A 2025 MagicBricks article advises against placing the tank directly in front of the main entrance to avoid “bad luck.” Instead, position it in the southeast (wealth sector) or north (career sector) of your home or office. Some believe a healthy Arowana absorbs negative energy, protecting its owner, as noted in a 2009 Arowana Club Canada excerpt. Neglecting their care may symbolically invite misfortune, so treat them with respect. If live fish aren’t feasible, a golden Arowana statue can serve as a Feng Shui alternative.

[](https://arowanaclub.ca/forums/threads/arowana-myth-stories.1287/)[](https://www.magicbricks.com/blog/feng-shui-fish/121999.html)

Fun Fact: Arowanas changing from orange to red around 5–6 years old are believed to signal incoming good luck.

Additional Considerations

Arowanas are best suited for experienced aquarists due to their complex needs. They’re prone to health issues like “drop eye” (untreatable but not contagious) and can be startled easily, leading to injuries. Regular maintenance, including monthly filter cleaning and water testing, is essential. Avoid placing tanks in bedrooms or kitchens per Feng Shui, as this may disrupt positive energy flow. If you’re new to fishkeeping, consider starting with hardier species like goldfish before tackling Arowanas.

[](https://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/forums/threads/do-you-want-an-arowana-then-read-this.329584/)[](https://www.magicbricks.com/blog/feng-shui-fish/121999.html)

Health Note: Arowanas can carry diseases like Mycobacterium or Salmonella, so wash hands thoroughly after handling them or their tank, especially if you’re pregnant or immunocompromised.

[](https://www.petco.com/content/content-hub/home/articlePages/caresheets/arowana.html)

Conclusion: A Rewarding but Demanding Pet

Arowanas are more than just beautiful fish; they’re a cultural symbol of prosperity and a test of aquarist dedication. Their large size, specific diet, and strict water quality needs make them a challenging but rewarding pet. By investing in a spacious tank, secure lid, and proper care, you can ensure your Arowana thrives, potentially bringing the luck and prosperity promised by Feng Shui. Before purchasing, confirm legal requirements and commit to their 10–20+ year lifespan. With the right preparation, your “dragon fish” can be a stunning centerpiece and a beacon of positive energy in your home.

References

1. Hindustan Times. (2021). “Vastu Tips: Keep Arowana Fish at Home to Ward Off Evil Forces.”

[](https://www.hindustantimes.com/astrology/vastu/vastu-tips-keep-arowana-fish-at-home-to-ward-off-evil-forces-101634530992040.html)

2. Times of India. (2025). “10 Things to Know Before Getting an Arowana Fish for Good Luck.”

[](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/relationships/web-stories/10-things-to-know-before-getting-an-arowana-fish-for-good-luck/photostory/123072832.cms)

3. Petco. (2025). “Arowana Fish Care: Diet, Tank Setup & More.”

[](https://www.petco.com/content/content-hub/home/articlePages/caresheets/arowana.html)

4. PetMD. (2023). “Arowana Care Sheet.”

[](https://www.petmd.com/fish/arowana-care-sheet)

5. A-Z Animals. (2024). “Asian Arowana - The $430k Fish That Isn’t Allowed in the US.”

[](https://a-z-animals.com/animals/fish/fish-facts/asian-arowana-the-430k-fish-not-allowed-in-the-us/)

6. Arowana Club Canada. (2009). “Arowana Myth & Stories.”

[](https://arowanaclub.ca/forums/threads/arowana-myth-stories.1287/)

7. MagicBricks. (2025). “15 Feng Shui Fish to Keep in an Aquarium.”

[](https://www.magicbricks.com/blog/feng-shui-fish/121999.html)

8. Arowana.co. (2023). “Arowana Fish Care Guide.”

[](https://arowana.co/pages/arowana-fish-the-majestic-dragon-of-the-aquarium-world)

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