Myanmar Arowana

Adults can reach 60 cm in length. The distinguishing feature of this fish is its powerful, elongated body. The dorsal and anal fins are set close to the tail, which allows rapid acceleration when hunting. Like its South American relatives, the Myanmar arowana is able to leap out of the water. Its colouration consists of light brown tones with a characteristic golden sheen.

The species is associated with South-East Asia, although its exact range remains incompletely known. Wild specimens have been found in southern Myanmar, in the Tanintharyi region. There are no confirmed records outside Myanmar; what is known of this species rests on isolated specimens obtained through the aquarium trade. It favours the upper layers of the water.

This fish is predatory by nature, but shows no aggression. It can be kept with other species provided they are large enough not to fit into its mouth. Although the Myanmar arowana leads a largely solitary life, it is neutral towards its own kind and can be kept in a group.

These fish do not belong to amateur fishkeeping, since keeping them demands not only considerable experience but also a substantial investment of time and money. The Myanmar arowana is most often seen in public aquariums, such as those in shopping centres, or in the private collections of wealthy owners. In both cases their care is usually entrusted to specialists, so a detailed account of husbandry and equipment lies outside the scope of this article.

This is a predator whose diet consists mainly of small fish, insects and other invertebrates living near the water surface. As noted above, the Myanmar arowana is capable of leaping out of the water to seize prey sitting, for instance, on a low-hanging branch. In the aquarium it is given similar meaty foods, either fresh or frozen: fish and shellfish meat, earthworms or shrimp. They must not be fed mammalian or avian meat: the lipids it contains cannot be properly metabolised by the fish and lead to excess fat deposits and even organ degeneration.

The Myanmar arowana belongs to a genus characterised by mouthbrooding performed by the male. In the wild the fish reach sexual maturity at several years of age. Reproduction involves elaborate courtship rituals, after which the female lays her eggs and the male takes them into his buccal cavity to carry them. The fry remain under the parent's protection for a long time, leaving the mouth only once the yolk sac is fully absorbed and they can feed independently. In an aquarium breeding is extremely difficult because of the fish's enormous size and its specific space requirements.

The species is subject to the ailments typical of large freshwater fish, usually linked to poor conditions or water quality. The most common problems are parasitic infestations — skin parasites, flukes and crustaceans — which damage the skin and fins. Prevention involves keeping water parameters stable, filtering regularly, and avoiding live foods, which can carry infections. The fish are sensitive to the accumulation of organic compounds, so the filtration system must meet high demands.

When choosing a specimen, look at its overall health: the fish should be active, with no visible injuries, ulcers or spots on the scales and fins. Make sure there are no signs of emaciation and that the eyes are clear and free of cloudiness. In the shop, check the cleanliness of the water and the fish's behaviour — healthy individuals show interest in their surroundings and react normally to external stimuli. Given the rarity of the species and its high price, buy only from trusted suppliers who hold the appropriate certificates and documentation confirming legal origin and the mandatory identification microchipping.