Originally posted by M©+square:
Any tips to look out for good quality Aro?
Yes there is..Heres comes the information you might need
Arowana is a highly priced fish, so when you are choosing a fish to purchase, it is important to know that you are getting the best fish. In our shop in geylang lor 27 , we only sell the best fish to you and here are some criteria when you choose your Arowana.
Color : According to species, color should be bright and lustrous.
Body Shape : Sufficiently broad and long, with each fin complete and in place.
Scales : Neatly arranged, shiny, evenly shaped and big.
Mandibular : Long and straight, equal in length, and matching Barbels with body-color of the fish.
Fins : Big and widespread. Each fin should have smooth hard-fin rays.
Gill Covers : Compact and close to the head and body. Gill covers must be shiny and not scarred.
Eyes : Even in shape and size, not droopy, not protruding, must be clear and not misty.
Mouth : Tightly closed, and jaws not protruding out.
Teeth : Neatly arranged and in-line with the jaw-line.
Vent : Not protruding, flat on pelvic region.
Swimming style : Graceful and often swimming in the upper part of the water in the aquarium.
Color
The most important criteria is the color of the fish because it is often the color that first attracts the hobbyist. Hence, if the body shape is attractive but the color is not, it cannot be considered perfect. According to the different types of Dragon Fish, the standard colors differ.BEWARE OF FAKE RED AND BLOOD AROWANAS IN THE MARKET!One way of preventing this is to get your fish from a CITES registered farm and make sure that the farm has a good sales record.
Body Shape
The ideal shape is one that is proportionate, neither too fat nor too thin. Essential to look after its environment and the food that it takes.
The space (size of tank) directly affects the growth and progress of the body. A limited space may result in its stunted size, or rounded, hunched shape. Basically the length of the tank should be 3 times the average length Dragon Fish during the growing stage.
Food should be nutritious. Besides fish and prawns, other types of food may be fed. Do not allow the Dragon Fish to be inclined to one type or eat too much. Feeding should be well controlled.
Scales
Scales are the Dragon FishÂ’s distinctive feature. Neatly layered and slippery scales are comparable to the good complexion of a person. The scales should be even and radiant. They should not have dark spots, although red spots are welcome as they are considered auspicious.
Many people have a misconception about the scales. They think that when the scales drop off, they may not be replaced naturally. The only point to note is in replacement, it has an itchy sensation causing it to rub its body against the side of the aquarium. This may cause the fish to be damaged. To prevent this, it is advisable to remove anything that may cause injury in the aquarium. If there is loss of scales, they can grow back after 3 to 5 weeks. While they are being replaced, the water condition should be noted so as to prevent harmful bacteria from proliferating. If any scale is out of shape, it could be removed by anesthetize the fish during the operation. A new scale will eventually grow in its place.
Mandibular Barbels (Whiskers)
Many fish lovers have high regard for the Dragon FishÂ’s whiskers because they resemble the dragonÂ’s horns - a sign of blessing.
Mandibular barbels must be equally long, straight and the color similar to its body-color. These act as an extension of the Dragon FishÂ’s power. Any broken, shortened or bent whiskers may mean a reduction to its majestic appearance.