If you’ve recently brought home an Arowana, I know you must be wondering which other fish species can be excellent tank mates for your prized possession. Set aside your worries because, in this article, we’ll explore 13 fantastic Arowana tank mates that you can introduce to your aquarium.
Clown Loaches
Clown Loaches are a wonderful addition to an Arowana tank. These bright and active bottom-dwellers add a touch of color and liveliness to the aquatic environment. Originating from southeast Asian rivers, they’re best known for their playful behavior and striking orange and black striped patterns. Clown Loaches enjoy the company of their own kind, and it’s recommended to keep them in small groups. Keep in mind, they can reach a sizeable length, so be sure your tank has ample space.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 75 gallons (283 liters) and above
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, enjoy a diet of pellets, flakes, and live or frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp.
- Adult Size: Up to 12 inches (30 cm)
Freshwater Stingrays
Freshwater Stingrays, mesmerizing creatures with their unique shape and undulating movement, can be a captivating addition to your Arowana tank. Their beautifully patterned bodies are a sight to behold. Native to South American rivers, these fascinating bottom-dwellers can coexist with Arowanas given their larger size and peaceful temperament. Do note that they require a spacious tank with a sandy substrate to thrive. Additionally, be prepared to handle their occasional a live prey feeding diet.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 180 gallons (681 liters) minimum, varies depending on species
- Care Level: Expert
- Temperament: Generally peaceful, but can be territorial
- Diet & Feeding: Carnivorous, enjoys live prey like shrimp, worms, and smaller fish, but can be trained to accept frozen alternatives
- Adult Size: 10-24 inches (25-61 cm) depending on species
Tiger Datnoid
Tiger Datnoids, also known as Tiger Fish, are an intriguing choice for an Arowana tank mate. With their striking patterns and toothy grins, they add a unique appearance to your aquatic setup. Hailing from Southeast Asian river systems, these fish can coexist with Arowanas due to their size and similar preferences in water parameters. However, it’s essential to keep an eye on their aggressive tendencies, mainly during feeding times. A large tank is required to accommodate the possible growth of these fish.
- Compatibility: 3.5/5
- Tank Size: 125 gallons (473 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
- Diet & Feeding: Carnivorous, prefers a diet of meaty foods such as shrimp, krill, and small fish
- Adult Size: Up to 18 inches (45 cm)
Blood Parrot Cichlids
Blood Parrot Cichlids, with their unique appearance and vibrant colors, can be an appealing option for Arowana tank mates. However, they’re not for everyone due to their hybrid status, which some aquarists are critical of. Blood Parrot Cichlids are peaceful fish that can coexist with Arowanas, but it’s crucial to ensure proper hiding spots in the tank to avoid stress. Their care is moderately easy due to their hardy nature, but be prepared for the tank size requirements.
- Compatibility: 3.5/5
- Tank Size: 55 gallons (208 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful, can be shy
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, enjoys a varied diet of pellets, flakes, and live or frozen foods
- Adult Size: Up to 8 inches (20 cm)
Common Pleco
Common Plecos are a popular addition to many aquariums, thanks to their algae-eating capabilities and intriguing appearance. While these nocturnal bottom-dwellers aren’t known to bother other tank inhabitants, it’s important to remember just how large they can grow. Be prepared to accommodate their adult size when considering adding a Common Pleco to your Arowana tank. Their peaceful demeanor makes cohabitation with Arowanas quite comfortable, but they do need hiding spaces during the day for their wellbeing.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 150 gallons (568 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, algae-based foods, sinking pellets, and occasional meaty treats like shrimp and bloodworms
- Adult Size: Up to 24 inches (61 cm)
Black Knife Fish
Black Knife Fish are an exotic and mystifying addition to any aquarium, with their elongated, ribbon-like bodies and electrosensory abilities. These nocturnal fish are native to the Amazon Basin and can harmoniously coexist with Arowanas due to their peaceful nature. While they are shy during the day, be sure to provide them with ample hiding spots to feel secure. As they grow, so will their tank requirements, so plan accordingly.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 75 gallons (283 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Moderate, need stable water conditions
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Carnivorous, prefers a diet of meaty foods such as shrimp, worms, and small fish
- Adult Size: Up to 20 inches (50 cm)
Snakehead Fish
Snakehead Fish, native to Asia and Africa, are known for their elongated snake-like appearance and sharp predatory instincts. While their unique look can be quite appealing, it’s important to be aware of their aggressive behavior and potential size before introducing them to an Arowana tank. These carnivorous fish can be territorial, so a large tank with ample hiding spots is essential for maintaining harmony in the tank. Additionally, keeping them well-fed can help reduce aggression.
- Compatibility: 2.5/5
- Tank Size: 150 gallons (568 liters) minimum, varies depending on species
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Aggressive
- Diet & Feeding: Carnivorous, prefers a diet of live prey, meaty foods like shrimp, worms, and small fish
- Adult Size: 12-39 inches (30-100 cm) depending on species
Iridescent Shark
Iridescent Sharks are an interesting option for an Arowana tank mate, thanks to their beautiful, shimmering appearance and lively behavior. Despite their name, these fish are not actual sharks, but rather members of the catfish family. Native to Southeast Asia, these schooling fish are friendly and relatively peaceful. However, they can grow exceptionally large, so their size and tank requirements should be taken into account when considering them as tank mates.
- Compatibility: 3.5/5
- Tank Size: 300 gallons (1,135 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, enjoys a variety of fish flakes, pellets, and meaty treats like shrimp and worms
- Adult Size: Up to 48 inches (122 cm)
Pacu Fish
Pacu Fish, with their striking resemblance to piranhas, can be a visually striking addition to an Arowana tank. While they may appear menacing, Pacu Fish are typically peaceful and can coexist with Arowanas. However, it’s important to remember just how large these fish can grow and the substantial tank requirements for accommodating them. Originating from South American rivers, they are primarily herbivores, requiring a diet with plenty of plant-based options.
- Compatibility: 3.5/5
- Tank Size: 500 gallons (1,893 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous with a preference for plant-based foods, requires a diet of fruits, vegetables, and occasional protein sources such as shrimp or worms.
- Adult Size: Up to 48 inches (122 cm)
Silver Dollar Fish
Silver Dollar Fish are named for their coin-like, rounded bodies and shiny silver appearance. These peaceful, schooling fish are a great option for adding some sparkle to your Arowana tank. Native to South American rivers, these fish get along well with Arowanas and other fish species. However, they do require space for their size and swimming needs, so a decent-sized tank is essential. Keep in mind, they are known to nibble on live plants, so adjust your tank setup accordingly.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 75 gallons (283 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, enjoys a varied diet of flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp
- Adult Size: Up to 6 inches (15 cm)
Flying Fox Fish
Flying Fox Fish are attractive and active additions to an Arowana aquarium. With their torpedo-like bodies and distinct horizontal stripe, they exhibit a unique appearance. Found in Southeast Asian river systems, these fish prefer highly oxygenated water just like Arowanas. While they are known to be algae eaters, it’s essential to provide them with other food sources as well. Due to their size and peaceful nature, they can coexist harmoniously with Arowanas, provided there’s enough space.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 55 gallons (208 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, not solely reliant on algae; requires a diet of algae wafers, vegetables, and occasional protein sources like brine shrimp
- Adult Size: Up to 6 inches (15 cm)
Green Terror Cichlid
Green Terror Cichlids, with their bright colors and striking features, can make quite an impression in your Arowana aquarium. However, as their name suggests, these fish can be rather territorial and aggressive, so careful consideration is needed before introducing them to your tank. Hailing from South American rivers, Green Terror Cichlids demand an environment with plenty of hiding spots and room to establish their own territory. If conditions are met, they can often coexist with Arowanas.
- Compatibility: 3/5
- Tank Size: 75 gallons (283 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Territorial and aggressive
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, feed a balanced diet of cichlid pellets, vegetables, and occasional live or frozen foods like brine shrimp or bloodworms
- Adult Size: Up to 12 inches (30 cm)
Jack Dempsey Cichlid
Jack Dempsey Cichlids are known for their stunning appearance and feisty, pugnacious demeanor, making them a bold choice for an Arowana tank mate. These colorful fish originate from Central America and are capable of holding their own against larger Arowanas. However, care must be taken when introducing them to an existing aquarium community, as their aggressive nature can cause disruptions. Ensuring ample tank space and hiding spots can help maintain balance among your fish.
- Compatibility: 3/5
- Tank Size: 75 gallons (283 liters) minimum
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Aggressive
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, feed a balanced diet of cichlid pellets, vegetables, and occasional live or frozen foods like brine shrimp or bloodworms
- Adult Size: Up to 10 inches (25 cm)