Crossback Golden Arowana

How To Care For Crossback Golden Arowana

The Crossback Golden Arowana (Scleropages formosus) is one of the most coveted varieties of the Asian Arowana, known for its stunning, bright golden scales that shimmer with an almost metallic glow. This beautiful fish is highly regarded for its vibrant coloration and is often seen as a symbol of wealth, prosperity, and good luck, particularly in Southeast Asian cultures. The Crossback Golden Arowana's name comes from its unique characteristic of displaying a striking "cross-back" pattern where the golden color on its scales extends from its back down to its body, giving it an elegant and majestic appearance.

Native to Southeast Asia, the Crossback Golden Arowana thrives in warm water temperatures between 75°F and 82°F and requires a large aquarium of at least 250 gallons, as it can grow up to 3 feet in length. These fish prefer slightly acidic to neutral water with excellent filtration and stable water conditions. A spacious tank with plenty of open swimming areas is ideal to allow the Crossback Golden Arowana to exhibit its graceful and fluid movements.

As carnivores, Crossback Golden Arowanas thrive on a varied diet of high-quality pellets, live or frozen foods such as shrimp, fish, and insects. They are surface feeders and may leap out of the water to catch prey, so it is essential to have a secure tank lid to prevent accidental escapes.

While generally peaceful, the Crossback Golden Arowana can be territorial, particularly in smaller tanks, and may exhibit aggressive behavior toward smaller or less dominant tankmates. It is best to house them with large, non-aggressive species, such as large catfish or cichlids, to reduce potential conflict.

With proper care, including regular water changes, a well-maintained tank environment, and a balanced diet, Crossback Golden Arowanas can live 10 to 15 years in captivity. Their breathtaking golden hue and regal presence make them an outstanding centerpiece in large aquariums, offering both beauty and cultural significance for aquarists who seek to add an elegant touch to their aquatic collections.