THE ASIAN AROWANA (Introduction)

The Asian Arowana (Scleropages Formosus) or better known as the 'Dragon Fish', has been regarded as one of the Kings in Aquatic World due its immense popularity, value and great looks. The unique shape, large mouth and scales, and air of mystery have made Asian Arowanas so special that they have stolen the heart of many hobbyists. With its close resemblance to the China Ancient Dragon, many Chinese all over the world believed that 'Dragon Fish' symbolises luck, wealth, prosperity and strength. Thus making it one of the best fish to keep for good Feng Shui. It is said that water is where 'Chi' gathers and 'Sheng Chin' in an aquarium, is said to be benefical. However, to ensure that the watre has Yong energy, auspicious fish are necessary. This is where the 'Dragon Fish' comes in demand, being widely accepted as the symbol of wealth.

There are basically 4 different natural occuring colour varieties for Asian Arowanas, namely Cross Back Golden from West Malaysia, Super Red from Indonesia's West Kalimantan, Red Tail Golden from Indonesia Pekanbaru and the Green variety, which can be found in rivers of Malaysia, Indonesia, Myanmar and Thailand. Due to its popularity and great demand, Asian Arowanas have been fiercely hunted at its native habitat for profits, thus the popuplation of these fish in the wild has declined very drastically over the years. This is especially so for Malaysian Golden Arowanas and Red Arowanas, which have reached a stage of near extinction since 1980s. Fortunately, Arowanas come under protection by the listing of the Convention on the International Trade in Endangered Species of wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) and are classified as an endangered species, threatened with extinction in CITES Appendix I. Since then, any illegal trading and hunting of such fishes from the wild are accompanied with heavy penalties. Even now, the trading of Asian Arowanas is still banned in country like United States of America. Taiwan had only recently lifted it ban on the trading of Asian Arowanas.