Arowanas, also known as aruanas or arawanas are freshwater boneyfish of the family Osteoglossidae, sometimes known as "bony tongues." In this family of fishes, the head is bony and the elongate body is covered by large, heavy scales, with a mosaic pattern of canals. The dorsal and the anal fins have soft rays and are long based, while the pectoral and ventral fins are small. The name 'bony tongues' is derived from a toothed bone on the floor of the mouth, the 'tongue', equipped with teeth that bite against teeth on the roof of the mouth. The fish can obtain oxygen from air by sucking it into the swim bladder, which is lined with capillaries like lung tissue.
Arowana Diet
Fish and fry, small mammals, large insects and birds.
Arowana Identification
Large scales, big eyes and an upward angled mouth with two forked barbels. Dorsal and anal fins are well behind the pectoral fins and extend almost to the tail.
Arowana Typical Location
Shallow and calm water, surface orientated. Active during the day patrolling close to the surface. Often adjacent to shores.
Arowana Flyfishing in Thailand
Thailand Flyfishing Season: All Year
Osteoglossids are carnivorous often being specialised surface feeders. They are excellent jumpers; it has been reported that Osteoglossum species have been seen leaping more than 6 feet (almost 2 metres) from the water surface to pick off insects and birds from overhanging branches in South America, hence the nickname "water monkeys". Arowanas have been rumoured to capture prey as large as low flying bats and small birds. Arowana typically grow around 3 to 4 feet, but this is only accountable in captivity.
Several species of osteoglossid exhibit extensive parental care. They build nests and protect the young after they hatch. Some species are mouth brooders, the parents holding sometimes hundreds of eggs in their mouths. The young may make several tentative trips outside the parent's mouth to investigate the surroundings before leaving permanently.
For the Chinese and those of related cultures, the dragon is a symbol of good luck and prosperity. In the eyes of the Chinese, the dragon fish has the appearance and majesty of the Chinese Dragon, especially the large scales and barbels.
Arowanas are also used for feng shui to bring good luck and wealth
