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Osteoglossum bicirrhosum, commonly known as the Silver Arowana, is a large, predatory freshwater fish native to the Amazon, Essequibo, and Oyapock basins in South America. It is characterized by its elongated, compressed body, large scales, and distinctive upward-facing mouth. These fish are highly sought after in the aquarium trade due to their impressive size, unique appearance, and active swimming behavior. They are known for their ability to jump out of the water to catch prey, earning them the nickname 'water monkey' in some regions.
Caratteristiche fisiche
- Forma del corpo
- elongated
- Colorazione
- Predominantly silvery, sometimes with a greenish or bluish sheen, especially on the dorsal surface. Juveniles may have a yellowish or orange tint on their fins. The large, prominent scales reflect light, giving them a metallic appearance.
- Tipo di squame
- cycloid
- Posizione della bocca
- superior
- Caratteristiche distintive
- Large, prominent scales (cycloid type) that are often iridescent., A large, oblique mouth that opens upwards, equipped with numerous small, conical teeth., Two prominent barbels at the tip of the lower jaw., Long dorsal and anal fins that extend almost to the caudal fin, giving a 'dragon-like' appearance., Laterally compressed body.
- Pinna dorsale
- Long, low, and originates far back on the body, almost confluent with the caudal fin.
- Pinna caudale
- Rounded to slightly pointed, often appearing fan-like.
- Pinna pettorale
- Relatively small and positioned low on the body.
- Pinne distintive
- Pelvic fins are small and located abdominally. The anal fin is long and mirrors the dorsal fin in shape and position.
Consigli per l'identificazione
Body Shape and Size
Elongated, laterally compressed body, reaching up to 90-120 cm (35-47 inches) in length and weighing up to 6 kg (13 lbs) in the wild. Captive specimens are often smaller.
Coloration
Uniformly silvery, sometimes with a faint greenish or bluish tint. Juveniles may have a more pronounced yellowish or orange hue on their fins.
Mouth and Barbels
Large, upward-pointing mouth with two prominent barbels on the lower jaw. This is a key distinguishing feature from other large predatory fish.
Scales
Very large, distinct, and iridescent cycloid scales that give the fish a metallic appearance.
Fin Placement
Dorsal and anal fins are long and set far back on the body, almost reaching the caudal fin.
Habitat
- Tipo di acqua
- freshwater
- Profondità
- Typically found in surface waters, often near the banks of rivers, flooded forests, and oxbow lakes.
- Ambiente
- Slow-moving, blackwater, and clearwater rivers, flooded forests, and lagoons. They prefer areas with submerged vegetation, fallen trees, and overhanging branches that provide cover and hunting opportunities. They are often found in areas with low oxygen levels, as they possess an accessory breathing organ (swim bladder modified for air breathing).
- Areale geografico
- Amazon, Essequibo, and Oyapock river basins in South America, including countries such as Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana.
Informazioni sull'acquario
- Livello di cura: advanced
- Temperamento: semi-aggressive
- Dieta: carnivore
- Dimensione minima della vasca: 1000 gallons (3785 liters) for a single adult
- Temperatura: 24-28°C (75-82°F)
- Livello di pH: 6.0-7.5
- Durezza: 5-15 dGH
- Compatibilità: Best kept alone or with other large, robust, and fast-moving fish that cannot be swallowed. Avoid small or slow-moving tank mates. Can be kept in groups of 6 or more if introduced simultaneously in a very large tank to diffuse aggression.
- Requisiti speciali: Requires a very large aquarium with a secure, heavy lid to prevent jumping. Excellent filtration is essential due to their large size and messy eating habits. Provide open swimming space with some tall, sturdy decorations or driftwood. Substrate preference is not critical, but fine sand or smooth gravel is suitable. Lighting should be moderate. Regular large water changes are crucial for maintaining water quality.
Informazioni in natura
- Stato di conservazione: least concern
- Stagionalità: Breeding typically occurs during the wet season when water levels are high, providing ample food and cover for fry.
- Prezzo di mercato: Varies significantly based on size and origin, ranging from tens to hundreds of dollars.
- Importanza commerciale: high
- Sapore: Mild, somewhat bland
- Consistenza: Firm, flaky white flesh with many small bones
- Metodi di cottura: Frying, Grilling, Steaming
- Valore nutrizionale: Good source of protein, low in fat. Specific nutritional data is not widely published for human consumption.
Fatti chiave
Ancient Lineageevolution
Arowanas are often referred to as 'living fossils' because their lineage dates back to the Jurassic period, making them one of the oldest fish families still in existence.
Leaping Hunterbehavior
Silver Arowanas are renowned for their incredible jumping ability, often leaping several feet out of the water to snatch insects, small birds, or bats from overhanging branches.
Mouthbrooderbehavior
The male Silver Arowana is a dedicated mouthbrooder, carrying hundreds of eggs and then fry in his mouth for an extended period (up to 50-60 days) until they are large enough to fend for themselves.
Air Breatheramazing
They possess a modified swim bladder that functions as an accessory breathing organ, allowing them to gulp air from the surface, which is an adaptation to survive in oxygen-poor waters.
Cultural Significanceinteresting
While not as culturally significant as their Asian counterparts, Silver Arowanas are still admired for their beauty and predatory prowess, sometimes associated with strength and prosperity in certain cultures.
Informazioni di sicurezza
Maneggiare con cura- Livello di sicurezza: caution
- Velenoso: No
- Commestibilità: edible
- Note sul maneggio: Silver Arowanas are powerful fish with strong jaws and can inflict a painful bite if handled carelessly. Their large scales can also be sharp. When handling, use appropriate tools and exercise caution to avoid injury to both the handler and the fish. They are also prone to jumping, so secure containment is essential.
Specie simili
Black Arowana
Osteoglossum ferreirai
The Black Arowana is typically darker in coloration, especially as a juvenile, often appearing black with a white or yellow lateral stripe. As adults, they become silvery but retain a darker overall hue compared to the Silver Arowana. Their body is generally more slender, and their fins are often darker.
Asian Arowana
Scleropages formosus (and other Scleropages species)
Asian Arowanas (e.g., Red Arowana, Green Arowana, Gold Arowana) belong to a different genus and are distinguished by their much larger, more distinct scales, often with intricate patterns and vibrant colors (red, gold, green). They also have a more robust body shape and typically lack the prominent barbels of the Silver Arowana, or have much smaller ones. Asian Arowanas are also significantly more expensive and are listed under CITES Appendix I or II due to conservation concerns.
African Arowana
Heterotis niloticus
The African Arowana is not a true arowana (family Osteoglossidae) but belongs to the family Arapaimidae. It has a more elongated, cylindrical body, a smaller mouth, and lacks the prominent barbels and large, iridescent scales characteristic of Osteoglossum species. Its coloration is typically duller, often brownish or grayish.
Classificazione scientifica
- Regno
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Classe
- Actinopterygii
- Ordine
- Osteoglossiformes
- Famiglia
- Osteoglossidae
- Genere
- Osteoglossum
- Specie
- bicirrhosum
Esplora Silver Arowana
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