Osteoglossum ferreirai Black Arowana
New Wild caught origin
| Qty (Stock) | Size | Sex | Unit price (Tax included) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12" | - | 399$ |
IMPORTANT
Keeping fish in an aquarium requires an ethical and responsible approach that prioritizes animal welfare. Purchasing fish for an aquarium should never be an impulsive decision. It is essential to understand the specific needs of each species, including water quality, aquarium size, behavior, and diet. Only fish with similar water quality requirements should be kept together in the same aquarium.
A Little More Information...
The Osteoglossum ferreirai, also called Black Arowana, is a large surface-dwelling fish valued for its impressive shape and calm movements. This species is best suited to experienced aquarists because it reaches a substantial adult size and requires a very spacious aquarium. Its dark body, metallic scales, and upturned mouth clearly show the adaptations of arowanas to hunting near the surface. The specimens offered are wild collected, so acclimation and transport should be handled carefully. Its rarity is rated at 2 out of 3, making it uncommon in the specialized aquarium trade.
General description of the species
The Osteoglossum ferreirai is an osteoglossid predator that spends most of its time in the upper part of the water column. It patrols slowly beneath the surface, then captures prey with a broad, strongly oblique mouth. Its behavior is usually observant, but it may become nervous in an aquarium that is too small or poorly covered. Like other arowanas, it can jump with considerable force, making a secure, tightly fitted cover essential. This species is better suited to a species aquarium or a very large installation than to a standard community aquarium. Its growth and long-term care requirements must be planned well in advance.
Geographical origin and habitat
For this profile, the listed geographical origin is Colombia, with the Rio Choco given as the source river. The associated habitat consists of warm tropical water with slow to moderate flow, often stained by organic matter from the surrounding forest. Banks are generally lined with branches, roots, leaf litter, and dense vegetation that provides shade. In the aquarium, soft, stable water and effective filtration help reproduce the general conditions preferred by this fish, while relatively subdued lighting can reduce stress.
Precise location and local name
In the information supplied for this profile, the reference location is the Rio Choco in Colombia. The local name provided is aruanã-preta, a Portuguese expression meaning black arowana. The name Black Arowana is also widely used in the international aquarium trade. Because common names may vary between regions and export channels, the scientific name Osteoglossum ferreirai remains the most precise identification. This distinction is especially useful when comparing young fish, whose coloration may change as they mature.
Appearance and physical characteristics
The Osteoglossum ferreirai has an elongated, laterally compressed body covered with large scales showing gray, dark brown, or blackish reflections. The dorsal and anal fins are long and positioned far back, while the pectoral fins are well developed. Its upturned mouth, two sensory barbels, and nearly straight dorsal profile are characteristic of arowanas. Juveniles may display more contrasting markings than adults. The dark coloration, upturned mouth, and barbels are the most useful identification features. A long, wide, fully covered aquarium should be planned from the beginning.
General diet
The Osteoglossum ferreirai is an opportunistic carnivore that mainly feeds on prey captured near the surface. In nature, its diet may include small fish, crustaceans, insects, and other animals available from the uppermost water layer. In aquaria, it accepts suitable meaty foods such as pieces of fish, shrimp, cultured insects, and quality pellets formulated for large predators. A varied diet supports good condition, while excessively fatty foods or a diet based only on feeder fish should be avoided. Food quality and careful portion control are essential to limit obesity and digestive problems.
Essential data
- Source river: Rio Choco
- Local name: Aruanã-preta
- Origin of the scientific name: The genus Osteoglossum identifies an arowana; the species name ferreirai is a Latinized surname.
- Full-name etymology: Osteoglossum comes from the Greek osteon, bone, and glossa, tongue; ferreirai honors a person named Ferreira.
- Common/vernacular names: Black Arowana, black arowana, aruanã-preta
- Family: Osteoglossidae
- Subfamily: Osteoglossinae
- Name pronunciation: oss-tee-oh-GLOSS-um - feh-reh-RAI-ee
- Discovery: Toshio Kanazawa, 1966
- Maximum adult size: Approximately 90 cm
- Water temperature and pH: 24 to 30 °C; pH 5.0 to 7.0
- Watercourse appearance and surrounding vegetation: Shaded tropical water, wooded banks, roots, branches, and leaf litter
- Typical tankmates: Osteoglossum bicirrhosum, Cichla temensis, Astronotus ocellatus, large compatible catfish and rays
- Temperament and behavior: Surface predator, usually calm but territorial and easily startled
- Water depth: Shallow surface zones near banks and vegetation
- Sexual dimorphism: Not obvious; mature males may develop a larger head and mouth
- Bottom structure and flow: Muddy or sandy-muddy bottom, plant debris, slow to moderate flow
In your aquarium
Success with the Osteoglossum ferreirai depends on a very large, long aquarium with a strong, secure cover, powerful filtration, and warm, soft, stable water. Because this is a wild-caught species, gradual acclimation helps reduce transport-related stress. Avoid tankmates small enough to be swallowed, sharp decorations, and excessive surface turbulence. A varied diet, regular water changes, and open swimming space will help maintain this predator in good condition as it grows.
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