Common Name: Southern Saratoga Arowana, Australian Arowana, Spotted Arowana
Scientific Name: Scleropages leichardti
The Southern Saratoga Arowana, native to Australia, is a captivating and lesser-known relative of the more famous Asian Arowana that is rarely ever seen available in the hobby. Not to be confused with the more common Jardini Arowana, it is characterized by an elongated, streamlined body and a unique jawline that gives it a distinctive profile. The body is typically a silvery or greenish color, adorned with dark spots or blotches, which can be more pronounced in some individuals.
Habitat and Distribution: Scleropages leichardti is found in the rivers and freshwater systems of northern Australia, particularly in Queensland. It inhabits slow-moving waters, including swamps, billabongs, and the quieter stretches of rivers, often where there is dense vegetation.
Size and Lifespan: In the wild, Southern Saratoga Arowanas can grow up to about 3 feet in length. They have a relatively long lifespan, often living for 10-15 years or more in captivity with proper care.
Diet and Behavior: This species is carnivorous and feeds on a variety of prey such as fish, crustaceans, and insects. In an aquarium, their diet should include a mix of meaty foods like fish fillets, shrimp, and specially formulated Arowana pellets. They are known for their surface-feeding behavior and can leap out of the water to capture prey.
Breeding and Reproduction: Breeding Southern Saratoga Arowanas in captivity is challenging and not commonly reported. In the wild, they are mouthbrooders, with the male carrying the eggs and fry in his mouth for protection.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements: A very large aquarium is required to house Southern Saratoga Arowanas, with a minimum tank size of 250 gallons recommended. The tank should have a tight-fitting lid as they are skilled jumpers. They require clean, well-filtered water with some space for swimming at the surface.
Ideal Tank Mates: Due to their size and predatory nature, tank mates should be chosen carefully. Suitable companions might include large catfish, robust cichlids, and other similarly sized species. Smaller fish are likely to be eaten.
Difficulty Level: Advanced. Their large size, specific dietary requirements, and need for a large tank make them more suitable for experienced aquarists.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 75-85°F (24-29°C)
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pH: 6.5-7.5
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General Hardness (GH): 8-15 dGH
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Carbonate Hardness (KH): 3-8 dKH
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Ammonia: 0 ppm
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Nitrite: 0 ppm
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Nitrate: <20 ppm
Additional Information:
- The Southern Saratoga Arowana is a prized species for its beauty and rarity, making it a centerpiece in large, well-maintained aquariums.
- They are active swimmers and need ample space to move, making them unsuitable for standard home aquariums.
- Their impressive jumping ability is a natural behavior for catching prey but requires caution in an aquarium setting to prevent escapes.
