The African Arowana (Heterotis niloticus), also known as the African Bonytongue, is a unique and rare species native to the Nile River basin and other freshwater systems across Africa. Unlike other Arowana species, the African Arowana has a distinct appearance with a more slender, elongated body and a tapered, pointed head.
What makes the African Arowana truly unique among Arowana species is its diet. While all other Arowana species are strict carnivores, the African Arowana is omnivorous and in the wild feeds heavily on plankton and small invertebrates. This makes them one of the most adaptable Arowana species in captivity.
Key Features:
The African Arowana is one of the rarest Arowana species in the aquarium trade. Their unique appearance and fascinating biology make them a prized addition for serious collectors looking for something truly different.
African Arowanas are hardy but have unique requirements compared to other Arowana species.
African Arowanas are less aggressive than other Arowana species. They can sometimes be kept with larger, peaceful tank mates, though caution is still advised. They should not be kept with small fish that could be eaten.
We ship African Arowanas nationwide with care.
All orders over $500 qualify for free express overnight shipping.
Each African Arowana is individually bagged with oxygenated water and packed in a Styrofoam-insulated box with temperature control.
We offer local pickup at our Beaumont, Texas location:
Pickup Hours: Monday-Sunday, 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM by appointment
Yes! African Arowanas are not CITES protected and are legal to own in all 50 states without special permits.
The African Arowana has a more slender, elongated body and a tapered, pointed head. Most notably, it is omnivorous while all other Arowana species are strict carnivores.
African Arowanas reach 24-30 inches in captivity. They are similar in size to Silver Arowanas but have a more slender build.
African Arowanas are less aggressive than other Arowana species. They can sometimes be kept with larger tank mates, but caution is still advised.
Unlike other Arowanas, African Arowanas are omnivorous. They will eat pellets, flakes, shrimp, bloodworms, and even some vegetable matter like spirulina flakes.
We offer a 100% live arrival guarantee. If your African Arowana arrives deceased, contact us within 2 hours of delivery with photos, and we will issue a replacement or refund.
Yes! Local pickup customers can see our Beaumont, TX facility by appointment. Call 409-359-4403 to schedule a visit.
