Amazon Fish Encyclopedia
The Rare &
Silver Arowana
Amazon
Fish Species Guide
Species Fact Sheet
Silver Arowana Information
The Silver Arowana is a remarkable predatory fish known for its acrobatic hunting style and ability to leap out of the water to catch prey. Called the "Monkey Fish" due to its ability to catch prey from overhanging branches, this ancient species is both a skilled hunter and a fascinating specimen of evolutionary adaptation, capable of breathing air in oxygen-poor waters.
Catch Distribution
The estimated potential yield for Arowana is approximately 1,800 tons, with the highest yield coming from the Central Amazon region, which accounts for 77% of the total. The Peruvian Amazon contributes 16%, while the Lower Amazon represents the remaining 6%.
Natural History
The Arowana group consists of two commercially significant species, Osteoglossum bicirrhosum and O. ferreirai. The latter is primarily found in the Negro River and only rarely appears in the Manaus market. In addition to their commercial value, Arowana are also sought after as ornamental fish. The species exhibits unique reproductive behavior, with males practicing mouth-brooding to protect their offspring. Their diet mainly consists of insects, spiders, and small fish.
Habitat & Distribution
Distribution of Silver Arowana in the Amazon Basin. Source: Barthem, R., Goulding, M. 2007. An unexpected ecosystem: the Amazon as revealed by fisheries.
The Arowana thrives in slow-moving waters throughout the Amazon River Basin. Unlike many Amazonian fish, it can breathe atmospheric air, allowing it to survive in low-oxygen environments where other fish struggle. This unique adaptation makes it particularly successful in oxygen-poor waters during the dry season.
- • Perfect for hunting insects
- • Rich in small prey
- • Abundant vegetation cover
- • Near overhanging vegetation
- • Calm, shallow waters
- • Prime hunting grounds
- • Can breathe air
- • Survives low oxygen
- • Thrives in various habitats
Behavior & Diet
The Arowana is a top-tier predator, relying on stealth, speed, and explosive power to ambush prey. They are surface hunters, gliding just below the waterline and striking with incredible precision using their large, upturned mouths to scoop prey in a split second.
- • Primary food source
- • Surface ambush strategy
- • Quick strikes
- • Grasshoppers and beetles
- • Surface feeding
- • Precision strikes
- • Near-water targets
- • Aerial ambush
- • Opportunistic catches
- • Rodents and frogs
- • Waterside prey
- • Surface attacks
Masters of surface hunting, using their large, upturned mouths to scoop prey with incredible precision and explosive speed.
Fishing Techniques & Best Practices
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Catching an Arowana requires quick reflexes and the right approach, as they are fast, jumpy, and notorious for throwing hooks. Their acrobatic nature and explosive strikes make them an exciting challenge for anglers.
Best Techniques
- Topwater Lures: Poppers, stickbaits, and frogs that mimic prey
- Live Bait Fishing: Using insects, small fish, or frogs
- Sight Fishing: Targeting them when they patrol the surface
Recommended Gear
- Rod: Medium-heavy spinning or baitcasting rod (20-40 lb test)
- Reel: High-speed spinning or baitcasting reel
- Line: Braided 30-50 lb test for strength and sensitivity
- Bait: Live insects, small fish, or topwater lures
Fight Time
Expect high-speed runs and powerful jumps, with Arowanas often leaping multiple times to shake the hook. Their explosive power and acrobatic nature make them an exciting challenge that requires both skill and patience to land successfully.
Conservation & Sustainability
While the Arowana is not endangered, habitat destruction and overfishing for the aquarium trade pose threats to wild populations. Many fishing operations now encourage catch-and-release practices to maintain healthy numbers, and some regions limit Arowana fishing to protect their ecosystems.
Best Practices for Catch & Release
Use barbless hooks to minimize injury
Minimize handling time out of water
Support the body properly when handling
Ensure fish is fully revived before release
Local Regulations
Always check local fishing regulations before targeting Arowana, as restrictions vary by region. These measures help protect wild populations from overfishing and ensure sustainable recreational fishing opportunities for future generations.
Cultural Significance & Fun Facts
Shimmering Scales
The Arowana's body scales shimmer in sunlight, creating a stunning mirror-like effect in the water that makes them truly mesmerizing.
Cultural Beliefs
In Amazonian folklore, catching an Arowana is believed to bring good luck and prosperity to the angler.
Escape Artist
The Arowana's remarkable ability to leap out of the water helps it escape predators like caimans and large catfish.
Intelligent Hunter
Considered one of the most intelligent freshwater fish, Arowanas can recognize patterns and learn from repeated encounters.
